Semaphore Fly vs True Armyworm Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Semaphore Fly | True Armyworm Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Poecilobothrus nobilitatus | Mythimna unipuncta |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Dolichopodidae | Noctuidae |
| Size | 5-7 mm | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Farmland |
| Diet | Omnivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | North America, South America, Europe, Africa, Oceania |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Semaphore Fly
A tiny metallic green fly where males have conspicuous white-tipped wings used in semaphore-like courtship displays. It is extremely common around garden ponds and puddles.
Did You Know?
Males stand on mud and wave their white-tipped wings like semaphore flags to attract females watching nearby.
True Armyworm Moth
A tawny-brown moth with a single white dot on each forewing. Its larvae march in armies across fields, devastating cereal crops.
Did You Know?
Larvae travel in large groups across the ground like a marching army, hence the common name.