Mormon Metalmark vs Eastern Calligrapher
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Mormon Metalmark | Eastern Calligrapher |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Apodemia mormo | Toxomerus geminatus |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Riodinidae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 22-30 mm wingspan | 5-7 mm |
| Habitat | Heathland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Western North America from Canada to Mexico | North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern (species); some subspecies criticall | Least Concern |
Mormon Metalmark
A small butterfly with dark brown wings covered in white spots arranged in irregular bands. Several of its subspecies are critically endangered.
Did You Know?
The Lange's metalmark subspecies, restricted to a single sand dune in California, is one of the rarest butterflies in the world.
Eastern Calligrapher
A tiny hoverfly with intricate black calligraphic markings on a yellow abdomen. It is one of the most abundant flower flies in eastern North America.
Did You Know?
Despite its small size, it is one of the most effective aphid predators in North American gardens.