Pipevine Swallowtail vs Robust Brown Rove Beetle
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pipevine Swallowtail | Robust Brown Rove Beetle |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Battus philenor | Ocypus brunnipes |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Coleoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Staphylinidae |
| Size | 70-110 mm wingspan | 14-20 mm |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Grasslands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | North America from southern Canada to Mexico | Europe, Western Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Pipevine Swallowtail
A dark swallowtail with brilliant iridescent blue hindwings and an orange-spotted underside. Its toxicity from Aristolochia host plants makes it the model for several mimicry complexes.
Did You Know?
At least five other butterfly species mimic its appearance to gain protection from predators.
Robust Brown Rove Beetle
A large, dark rove beetle with characteristic brown legs, found commonly in grasslands and meadows. It is a powerful nocturnal predator that shelters under stones by day.
Did You Know?
Like its relative the devil's coach horse, this beetle emits a foul smell from its white-tipped abdominal glands when threatened.