Schaus Swallowtail vs Death Head Hawkmoth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Schaus Swallowtail | Death Head Hawkmoth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heraclides aristodemus ponceanus | Acherontia atropos |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 83-95 mm wingspan | 100-130 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Farmland |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Florida Keys, United States | Africa, Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Least Concern |
Schaus Swallowtail
A dark swallowtail with yellow bands and rusty-brown hindwing patches restricted to hardwood hammocks of the Florida Keys. It is one of the most endangered butterflies in the United States.
Did You Know?
After Hurricane Andrew in 1992 nearly wiped out the species, a captive breeding program at the University of Florida saved it from extinction.
Death Head Hawkmoth
Famous for the skull-like pattern on its thorax. Can emit a loud squeak when disturbed. Raids beehives by mimicking bee scent to steal honey.
Did You Know?
Deaths-head hawkmoths invade beehives by releasing a chemical that mimics the scent of bees, allowing them to walk in unbothered and feast on honey.