Seashore Springtail vs Buck Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Seashore Springtail Buck Moth
Scientific Name Anurida maritima Hemileuca maia
Order Collembola Lepidoptera
Family Neanuridae Saturniidae
Size 2-3 mm 50-75 mm wingspan
Habitat Beaches & Coastal Heathland
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Europe, North America Eastern North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Seashore Springtail

A dark blue-black springtail found in dense clusters on rocky seashores at low tide. It survives tidal submersion by trapping air in its body hairs.

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Did You Know?

It can survive being submerged by the tide for hours by breathing trapped air bubbles.

Buck Moth

A day-flying black and white moth with a red-tipped abdomen that appears in autumn. Its spiny caterpillar delivers a painful venomous sting that causes welts and swelling.

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Did You Know?

In New Orleans, falling caterpillars are a seasonal hazard, prompting public health warnings each spring.