Iberian Snakefly vs Black Witch Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Iberian Snakefly Black Witch Moth
Scientific Name Harraphidia laufferi Ascalapha odorata
Order Raphidioptera Lepidoptera
Family Raphidiidae Erebidae
Size 10-14 mm 120-170 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Fruit Feeders
Regions Spain, Portugal South America (Brazil, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, Ecuador, Argentina)
Conservation Near Threatened Least Concern

Iberian Snakefly

A snakefly endemic to the Iberian Peninsula, found in cork oak and pine woodlands. It is one of several snakefly species restricted to the western Mediterranean.

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Did You Know?

The Iberian Peninsula is a hotspot for snakefly diversity, hosting more species per area than almost anywhere else.

Black Witch Moth

One of the largest moths in the Western Hemisphere, with dark brown to black wings marked with subtle iridescent purple and pink highlights. A comma-shaped translucent spot marks each forewing. It is a strong migrant, capable of long-distance flights.

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Did You Know?

In many South American cultures, it is considered an omen of death when it enters a home, earning it the Spanish name mariposa de la muerte.