Mitchell's Diurnal Moth vs Oak Leaf Roller Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Mitchell's Diurnal Moth Oak Leaf Roller Moth
Scientific Name Pollanisus viridipulverulenta Archips xylosteana
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Zygaenidae Tortricidae
Size 18-25 mm wingspan 18-23 mm wingspan
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Parasites Herbivores
Regions Australia, Oceania Europe, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Mitchell's Diurnal Moth

A small, metallic blue-green day-flying moth with a slow, fluttery flight. It is common in heathlands and open forests where its larvae feed on native Cassytha vines.

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Did You Know?

Its metallic colouration and slow flight advertise its toxicity, as the larvae sequester cyanogenic compounds from their host plant.

Oak Leaf Roller Moth

A medium-sized tortrix with brown patterned forewings showing darker oblique bands. Larvae roll oak leaves into tight tubes secured with silk.

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Did You Know?

Each caterpillar constructs multiple leaf rolls during its development, moving to fresh leaves as it grows.