Malachite Butterfly vs Large Scoliid Wasp

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malachite Butterfly Large Scoliid Wasp
Scientific Name Siproeta stelenes Megascolia maculata
Order Lepidoptera Hymenoptera
Family Nymphalidae Scoliidae
Size Wingspan 85-100mm 25-45 mm
Habitat Orchards Orchards
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions North America, South America Southern Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Malachite Butterfly

A large butterfly with striking black and brilliant malachite green patterning on both wing surfaces. It has a slow graceful flight.

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Did You Know?

Unlike most butterflies it feeds primarily on rotting fruit and bird droppings rather than flower nectar.

Large Scoliid Wasp

Europe's largest wasp, with a massive black body marked with bold yellow spots. Females burrow underground to parasitise rhinoceros beetle larvae.

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Did You Know?

Despite its terrifying size, it is surprisingly docile and rarely stings humans.