Large Tortoiseshell vs Coppery Dysphania
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Large Tortoiseshell | Coppery Dysphania |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nymphalis polychloros | Dysphania cuprina |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Geometridae |
| Size | 54-65 mm wingspan | 70-75 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Orchards | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, North Africa, temperate Asia | Southeast Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern (extinct in Britain) | Least Concern |
Large Tortoiseshell
A large orange butterfly with dark spots resembling a scaled-up small tortoiseshell, once widespread in Britain but now effectively extinct there. It hibernates as an adult in tree hollows.
Did You Know?
Its decline in Britain is thought to be linked to Dutch elm disease destroying its primary food plant.
Coppery Dysphania
A brightly colored day-flying moth widespread across Southeast Asia. The metallic coppery-gold and black pattern warns predators of its unpalatability. Flies with a slow, confident wingbeat.
Did You Know?
Flies slowly and conspicuously during the day, confident that its bright warning colors will deter predators.