New Zealand Red Admiral vs Evergreen Bagworm Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | New Zealand Red Admiral | Evergreen Bagworm Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Vanessa gonerilla | Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Psychidae |
| Size | 50-60 mm wingspan | Males 25 mm wingspan; females wingless and legless |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Sap Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Eastern North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
New Zealand Red Admiral
An endemic New Zealand butterfly with striking red and black wing patterns. It is found throughout both main islands in bush margins and gardens. The larvae feed exclusively on native stinging nettle (ongaonga).
Did You Know?
Unlike most butterflies, the New Zealand red admiral overwinters as an adult and can sometimes be seen flying on warm winter days.
Evergreen Bagworm Moth
A North American bagworm whose larvae construct spindle-shaped bags covered in bits of leaves and twigs. Heavy infestations can completely defoliate and kill ornamental evergreen trees.
Did You Know?
The adult female is so reduced that she is essentially a bag of eggs with no wings, legs, eyes, or functional mouthparts.