Processionary Caterpillar Moth vs African Bladder Cicada

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Processionary Caterpillar Moth African Bladder Cicada
Scientific Name Ochrogaster lunifer Platypleura stridula
Order Lepidoptera Hemiptera
Family Notodontidae Cicadidae
Size 35-45 mm wingspan 28-35 mm
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Herbivores Sap Feeders
Regions Australia, Oceania Sub-Saharan Africa
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Processionary Caterpillar Moth

A moth whose caterpillars are famous for travelling in long, nose-to-tail processions through the Australian bush. The larvae are covered in irritating hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.

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Did You Know?

Processions of caterpillars can stretch for metres and contain hundreds of individuals following a silk trail left by the leader.

African Bladder Cicada

A sub-Saharan African cicada with flattened lateral extensions on its abdomen. It is commonly heard calling from trees in woodland savannas.

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Did You Know?

The flattened thoracic extensions help the cicada blend seamlessly against tree bark when at rest.