Mediterranean Mantis vs Spanish Festoon
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mediterranean Mantis | Spanish Festoon |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Iris oratoria | Zerynthia rumina |
| Order | Mantodea | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Mantidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 40-60 mm | 42-52 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Southern Europe, North Africa, Western United States | Southern Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Mediterranean Mantis
A medium-sized mantis with striking eyespots on its hindwings used to startle predators. It is native to the Mediterranean but established in the western United States.
Did You Know?
When threatened, it flashes vivid purple and black eyespots on its hindwings to scare predators.
Spanish Festoon
A brightly patterned butterfly with zigzag black markings and red and yellow patches on its wings. It is a spring-flying species restricted to the western Mediterranean.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillar feeds on toxic birthwort plants, making both larva and adult distasteful to birds.