Palos Verdes Blue vs Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Palos Verdes Blue | Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Glaucopsyche lygdamus palosverdesensis | Perga polita |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Hymenoptera |
| Family | Lycaenidae | Pergidae |
| Size | 2-3 cm wingspan | 14-20 mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | United States | Southeastern Australia |
| Conservation | Critically Endangered | Least Concern |
Palos Verdes Blue
A tiny blue butterfly endemic to the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County. It was thought extinct in 1983 before being rediscovered in 1994.
Did You Know?
It is considered one of the rarest butterflies in the world, with captive breeding programs helping sustain the population.
Gum-Tree Pergid Sawfly
A robust Australian sawfly with a dark, polished body. Its gregarious larvae cluster on eucalyptus branches and produce a strong eucalyptus odor when disturbed.
Did You Know?
The powerful eucalyptus-oil smell released by disturbed larvae can be detected from several meters away and serves as a chemical defense.