Satin Moth vs New Zealand Yellow Admiral
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Satin Moth | New Zealand Yellow Admiral |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Leucoma salicis | Vanessa itea |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Erebidae | Nymphalidae |
| Size | 40-55 mm wingspan | 45-55 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Gardens |
| Diet | Omnivores | Fruit Feeders |
| Regions | Europe, Asia (introduced to North America) | Oceania (New Zealand, also Australia) |
| 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.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar's hairs can cause skin irritation in humans, similar to a mild rash.
New Zealand Yellow Admiral
A native New Zealand butterfly closely related to the red admiral but featuring prominent yellow-orange patches on its wings. It is widespread across both islands and is a common garden visitor. Adults are strong fliers and may occasionally migrate.
Did You Know?
Yellow admirals are one of the few New Zealand butterflies that occasionally make trans-Tasman crossings between Australia and New Zealand.