New Zealand Magpie Moth vs Mantis Lacewing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Magpie Moth | Mantis Lacewing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Nyctemera annulata | Mantispa perla |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Neuroptera |
| Family | Erebidae | Mantispidae |
| Size | 35-45 mm wingspan | 15-20mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Predators |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Magpie Moth
A distinctive day-flying moth endemic to New Zealand, with black and white spotted wings. It is commonly seen fluttering in gardens and bush edges, where its hairy black caterpillars feed on ragwort and groundsel. The bold pattern warns predators of its distastefulness.
Did You Know?
The magpie moth's caterpillars feed on poisonous ragwort plants and store the toxins in their body, making both the caterpillar and adult moth toxic to predators.
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.