Mantis Lacewing vs Large Red Damselfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mantis Lacewing | Large Red Damselfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mantispa perla | Pyrrhosoma nymphula |
| Order | Neuroptera | Odonata |
| Family | Mantispidae | Coenagrionidae |
| Size | 15-20mm | 33-36 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Gardens |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mantis Lacewing
A delicate insect with mantis-like raptorial forelegs and lace-like wings. An ambush predator of small insects.
Did You Know?
Larvae enter spider egg sacs and consume all the eggs, emerging as adults from the silk cocoon.
Large Red Damselfly
One of the first damselflies to emerge each spring in Europe, with a distinctive bright red body and black legs. It is commonly found at garden ponds.
Did You Know?
Large red damselflies are among the earliest odonates to emerge in spring, often appearing as early as April when few other species are flying.