Satin Moth vs Canary-shouldered Thorn

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Satin Moth Canary-shouldered Thorn
Scientific Name Leucoma salicis Ennomos alniaria
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Geometridae
Size 40-55 mm wingspan 35-42 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, Asia (introduced to North America) Europe, temperate Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Satin Moth

A pure white moth with a satin-like sheen and strikingly chequered black-and-white legs. It can become a serious defoliator of poplar and willow trees.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillar's hairs can cause skin irritation in humans, similar to a mild rash.

Canary-shouldered Thorn

An autumn moth with bright canary-yellow fur on its thorax and warm orange-yellow wings. When at rest with wings raised, it closely resembles a dead birch leaf.

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Did You Know?

Its vivid yellow thoracic fur is unique among British geometrid moths and makes it instantly recognisable.