Lunar Hornet Moth vs Angle Shades

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Lunar Hornet Moth Angle Shades
Scientific Name Sesia bembeciformis Phlogophora meticulosa
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Sesiidae Noctuidae
Size 30–42 mm wingspan 45-52 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Farmland
Diet Omnivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Western Asia Europe, western Asia, North Africa
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Lunar Hornet Moth

A large clearwing moth that mimics a hornet and bores into willow and sallow trunks. Adults emerge in midsummer and are active in sunshine.

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Did You Know?

The empty pupal skin can be found protruding from the exit hole on willow trunks long after the moth has emerged.

Angle Shades

A moth with uniquely crumpled wings in olive, pink, and brown that perfectly resemble a dead leaf. It can be found in every month of the year in mild climates.

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Did You Know?

Its wings naturally fold into angular creases at rest, enhancing its dead-leaf camouflage.