Saddleback Caterpillar Moth vs Transparent Burnet
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Saddleback Caterpillar Moth | Transparent Burnet |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Acharia stimulea | Zygaena purpuralis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Limacodidae | Zygaenidae |
| Size | 26-35 mm wingspan | 28-35 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Orchards | Grasslands |
| Diet | Omnivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Eastern North America | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Near Threatened |
Saddleback Caterpillar Moth
A dark brown moth best known for its extraordinary caterpillar, which is bright green with a brown saddle-shaped marking and venomous spines. The sting causes intense burning pain.
Did You Know?
Its sting is among the most painful of any North American caterpillar and can cause nausea in sensitive individuals.
Transparent Burnet
A day-flying moth with semi-transparent red-streaked forewings. It is found in calcareous grasslands where wild thyme grows.
Did You Know?
Its caterpillars feed exclusively on wild thyme, making it entirely dependent on this one plant.