Mascarene Spreadwing vs Small Magpie Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mascarene Spreadwing | Small Magpie Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Lestes auripennis | Anania hortulata |
| Order | Odonata | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Lestidae | Crambidae |
| Size | 3.5-4.5 cm | 26-30 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Mauritius, Reunion | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Mascarene Spreadwing
A rare damselfly endemic to Mauritius and Reunion in the Mascarene Islands. It breeds in slow-flowing streams with overhanging vegetation.
Did You Know?
Most of Mauritius's original wetland habitat has been converted to sugar cane fields.
Small Magpie Moth
A pretty white moth with black spots and a yellow head. Despite its name, it is a crambid rather than a geometrid like the true Magpie Moth.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar lives inside a rolled leaf shelter that it spins shut with silk.