Peppered Moth of New Zealand vs Webbing Clothes Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Peppered Moth of New Zealand | Webbing Clothes Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cleora scriptaria | Tineola bisselliella |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Tineidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 6-8 mm body; 12-16 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Indoors |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Oceania (New Zealand) | Worldwide |
| 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.
Webbing Clothes Moth
A small golden-buff moth whose larvae are the primary insect pest of woolen clothing and textiles. Adults are weak fliers that avoid light, preferring dark closets and drawers.
Did You Know?
Unlike most moths, adults actively avoid light and will run rather than fly when disturbed.