Schaus Swallowtail vs Golden Sun Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Schaus Swallowtail | Golden Sun Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Heraclides aristodemus ponceanus | Synemon plana |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Castniidae |
| Size | 83-95 mm wingspan | 3-4 cm wingspan |
| Habitat | Forests | Grasslands |
| Diet | Wood Feeders | Root Feeders |
| Regions | Florida Keys, United States | Australia |
| Conservation | Endangered | Critically Endangered |
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.
Golden Sun Moth
A day-flying moth with dull grey-brown forewings and brilliant orange-gold hindwings. It is critically threatened by the loss of native grasslands.
Did You Know?
Larvae live underground feeding on grass roots for up to three years before emerging as adults that live only days.