Silver-ground Carpet vs Common Compost Hoverfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Silver-ground Carpet | Common Compost Hoverfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xanthorhoe montanata | Syritta pipiens |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Syrphidae |
| Size | 26-30 mm wingspan | 7-9 mm |
| Habitat | Gardens | Gardens |
| Diet | Herbivores | Scavengers |
| Regions | Europe | Worldwide |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Silver-ground Carpet
A common and attractive geometer moth frequently disturbed from vegetation during daytime walks. White with grey-brown central band. Found in a variety of habitats from gardens to mountains.
Did You Know?
Commonly flushed from undergrowth when walking through tall vegetation, flying a short distance before resettling.
Common Compost Hoverfly
A tiny, slender hoverfly with distinctively swollen hind femora and a darting flight pattern. It breeds in compost heaps and decaying organic matter.
Did You Know?
Males hover in sunbeams and dart sideways to intercept passing females with lightning-fast aerial maneuvers.