Large Yellow Underwing vs Mitchell's Diurnal Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Large Yellow Underwing Mitchell's Diurnal Moth
Scientific Name Noctua pronuba Pollanisus viridipulverulenta
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Zygaenidae
Size 50-60 mm wingspan 18-25 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Forests
Diet Fruit Feeders Parasites
Regions Europe, North America Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Large Yellow Underwing

One of the most abundant moths in Europe with bright yellow-orange hindwings bordered in black. It is strongly attracted to light at night.

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Did You Know?

It has successfully invaded North America and is now one of the most commonly found moths at porch lights across the continent.

Mitchell's Diurnal Moth

A small, metallic blue-green day-flying moth with a slow, fluttery flight. It is common in heathlands and open forests where its larvae feed on native Cassytha vines.

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Did You Know?

Its metallic colouration and slow flight advertise its toxicity, as the larvae sequester cyanogenic compounds from their host plant.