Lesser Yellow Underwing vs New Zealand Magpie Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Lesser Yellow Underwing | New Zealand Magpie Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Noctua comes | Nyctemera annulata |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Noctuidae | Erebidae |
| Size | 40-46 mm wingspan | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Herbivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Oceania (New Zealand) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Lesser Yellow Underwing
Similar to the Large Yellow Underwing but smaller with more orange-yellow hindwings. Very common in gardens and attracted to light. Larvae feed on many herbaceous plants.
Did You Know?
Together with its larger relative, forms one of the most abundant moth species partnerships in garden moth traps.
New Zealand Magpie Moth
A distinctive day-flying moth endemic to New Zealand, with black and white spotted wings. It is commonly seen fluttering in gardens and bush edges, where its hairy black caterpillars feed on ragwort and groundsel. The bold pattern warns predators of its distastefulness.
Did You Know?
The magpie moth's caterpillars feed on poisonous ragwort plants and store the toxins in their body, making both the caterpillar and adult moth toxic to predators.