Malagasy Processionary Moth vs Clouded Skipper

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Processionary Moth Clouded Skipper
Scientific Name Anaphe madagascariensis Lerema accius
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Notodontidae Hesperiidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 32-44 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Underground
Diet Herbivores Nectar Feeders
Regions Madagascar Southeastern United States from Texas to Virginia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Malagasy Processionary Moth

A pale silky white moth whose caterpillars march in long head-to-tail processions through the forest. The larvae are covered in irritating urticating hairs.

💡

Did You Know?

The caterpillars spin communal silk nests and march in lines of dozens of individuals, each following silk trails laid by the leader.

Clouded Skipper

A dark brown skipper with small glassy white spots on its forewings. It is one of the most common grass skippers in the southeastern United States.

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike most skippers, it prefers shaded habitats and is frequently found in wooded areas rather than open fields.