Secondary Screwworm Fly vs Death Head Hawkmoth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Secondary Screwworm Fly | Death Head Hawkmoth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Cochliomyia macellaria | Acherontia atropos |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Calliphoridae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 8-12 mm | 100-130 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Carrion Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | North America, South America | Africa, Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Secondary Screwworm Fly
A blow fly that breeds in carrion and occasionally infests wounds in livestock. It is widely used in forensic studies in the Americas.
Did You Know?
Unlike the primary screwworm, it only feeds on dead tissue rather than living flesh.
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.