Red Velvet Ant vs Silver-washed Fritillary
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Red Velvet Ant | Silver-washed Fritillary |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Dasymutilla magnifica | Argynnis paphia |
| Order | Hymenoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Mutillidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 12-20 mm | 54-70 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Deserts & Drylands | Woodlands |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Southwestern United States, Mexico | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Red Velvet Ant
A large, brilliantly red-haired velvet ant found in the arid regions of the American Southwest. Females are wingless and run rapidly across open ground.
Did You Know?
Its exoskeleton is so tough that entomological pins often bend when researchers attempt to mount specimens.
Silver-washed Fritillary
A large, fast-flying butterfly with bright orange upperwings marked with black spots and streaks. The hindwing underside has distinctive silvery-green washed streaks.
Did You Know?
Males perform a spectacular aerial courtship display, flying loops underneath the female while releasing pheromones from specialized wing scales.