Old Lady Moth vs Mascarene Island Dragonfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Old Lady Moth Mascarene Island Dragonfly
Scientific Name Mormo maura Thalassothemis marchali
Order Lepidoptera Odonata
Family Noctuidae Libellulidae
Size 60-75 mm wingspan 40-50 mm body length
Habitat Rivers & Streams Forests
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, western Asia Mauritius, Reunion Island
Conservation Least Concern Endangered

Old Lady Moth

A large, sombre dark-brown moth whose wing pattern was thought to resemble a shawl worn by elderly women. It hides in dark places by day, including outbuildings and cellars.

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Did You Know?

It is frequently found roosting in garden sheds and churches during the daytime in summer.

Mascarene Island Dragonfly

A skimmer dragonfly endemic to Mauritius and Reunion in the Mascarene Islands. It patrols ponds and streams in remaining forest habitats.

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Did You Know?

Habitat loss from invasive plants has dramatically reduced its breeding sites on both islands.