Peppered Moth of New Zealand vs Large Yellow Underwing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peppered Moth of New Zealand | Large Yellow Underwing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cleora scriptaria | Noctua pronuba |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Noctuidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 50-60 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Farmland |
| Diet | Herbivores | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Europe, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Peppered Moth of New Zealand
An endemic New Zealand geometrid moth known as the kawakawa looper, whose caterpillars feed on kawakawa and other native plants. The caterpillars are expert twig mimics, holding themselves rigid at an angle from the branch. Adults have speckled grey wings.
Did You Know?
The kawakawa looper caterpillar is such an effective twig mimic that it can be almost impossible to detect on a branch, even when you know it is there.
Large Yellow Underwing
One of the most abundant moths in Europe with bright yellow-orange hindwings bordered in black. It is strongly attracted to light at night.
Did You Know?
It has successfully invaded North America and is now one of the most commonly found moths at porch lights across the continent.