North American Snow Scorpionfly vs Northern Snow Scorpionfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | North American Snow Scorpionfly | Northern Snow Scorpionfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Boreus californicus | Boreus westwoodi |
| Order | Mecoptera | Mecoptera |
| Family | Boreidae | Boreidae |
| Size | 3-5 mm | 3-4 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Forests |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | North America | Northern Europe, Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
North American Snow Scorpionfly
A small dark wingless scorpionfly found in mountainous regions of western North America. It is active during winter months on moss-covered substrates.
Did You Know?
These insects produce antifreeze compounds in their hemolymph that allow them to remain active at subzero temperatures.
Northern Snow Scorpionfly
A small, dark, flightless scorpionfly that appears on snow in late autumn and early winter. It is glossy black-brown with elongated mouthparts for feeding on mosses. Females have a prominent pointed ovipositor.
Did You Know?
Despite being wingless, this insect can jump short distances using its powerful hind legs to move quickly across snow.