Lange's Metalmark Butterfly vs Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lange's Metalmark Butterfly Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
Scientific Name Apodemia mormo langei Psilogramma menephron
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Riodinidae Sphingidae
Size 2.5-3.5 cm wingspan 100-120 mm wingspan
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions United States Australia, Oceania
Conservation Endangered Least Concern

Lange's Metalmark Butterfly

A small metalmark butterfly found only at Antioch Dunes in California. Its larvae feed exclusively on naked-stemmed buckwheat.

💡

Did You Know?

It was one of the first insects listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act in 1976.

Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)

One of Australia's largest hawk moths, with a robust grey body and intricately patterned wings that provide superb camouflage on tree bark. The large green caterpillars have a distinctive tail horn.

💡

Did You Know?

Hawk moth caterpillars rear up and vibrate their bodies when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating.