Madagascan Sphinx Moth vs Giant Swallowtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Madagascan Sphinx Moth Giant Swallowtail
Scientific Name Xanthopan praedicta Papilio cresphontes
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Sphingidae Papilionidae
Size 130-150 mm wingspan 100-160 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Madagascar North America, Central America
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Madagascan Sphinx Moth

A hawkmoth with an extraordinarily long proboscis, endemic to Madagascar. Darwin famously predicted its existence based on a deep orchid.

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Did You Know?

Its proboscis can reach up to 30 cm long to access nectar from Angraecum sesquipedale orchids.

Giant Swallowtail

The largest butterfly in North America with dark brown wings crossed by yellow bands. Larvae resemble bird droppings for camouflage.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillars are called Orange Dogs because they can be pests in citrus orchards.