Sallow vs Brazilian Thorn Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sallow | Brazilian Thorn Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xanthia icteritia | Cyanopepla huillensis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Noctuidae | Erebidae |
| Size | 30-36 mm wingspan | 35-50 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Hedgerows | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | South America (Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay) |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Sallow
A pretty golden-yellow moth found in autumn, associated with sallow trees. Adults can be attracted to sugar or wine rope. Larvae feed on sallow catkins before descending to feed on low plants.
Did You Know?
Larvae begin life eating sallow catkins high in trees, then descend to complete development on ground-level plants.
Brazilian Thorn Moth
A day-flying moth with brilliant metallic blue forewings and bright red or orange hindwings, warning predators of its toxicity. It mimics various toxic butterflies and wasps. Despite being a moth, it is active during daylight hours and visits flowers for nectar.
Did You Know?
It is one of many day-flying moths in the Neotropics that are frequently mistaken for butterflies due to their bright colors and diurnal habits.