Ilex Hairstreak vs Black Headed Birch Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Ilex Hairstreak | Black Headed Birch Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Satyrium ilicis | Craesus alniastri |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Tenthredinidae |
| Size | 30-36 mm wingspan | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Southern and central Europe, western Asia | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Ilex Hairstreak
A small dark brown butterfly with an orange band on the underside of its hindwings and a tiny tail projection. It is strongly associated with young oak growth and coppiced woodland.
Did You Know?
Despite its name suggesting holly (ilex), it feeds exclusively on oak and was misidentified when first described.
Black Headed Birch Sawfly
A medium-sized sawfly with a dark head and orange body. Larvae are greenish-blue with black heads and feed communally on birch and alder leaves.
Did You Know?
When a predator approaches, the entire colony of larvae simultaneously rears up and thrashes, making the group appear larger and more threatening.