Malagasy Processionary Moth vs Shadow Darner

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Malagasy Processionary Moth Shadow Darner
Scientific Name Anaphe madagascariensis Aeshna umbrosa
Order Lepidoptera Odonata
Family Notodontidae Aeshnidae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 65-75 mm
Habitat Forests Forests
Diet Herbivores Predators
Regions Madagascar North America
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.

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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.

Shadow Darner

A large, dark darner that hunts in shaded forest edges during evening hours. It is widespread across North America in wooded habitats.

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Did You Know?

It is a crepuscular hunter, most active during the dim lighting of dawn and dusk.