Six-spot Burnet vs Puss Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Six-spot Burnet | Puss Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Zygaena filipendulae | Cerura vinula |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Zygaenidae | Notodontidae |
| Size | 30-40 mm wingspan | 58-80 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Predators | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, western Asia | Europe, Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Six-spot Burnet
A day-flying moth with metallic blue-black forewings bearing six crimson spots. Its bright colours warn predators of its cyanide-based chemical defences.
Did You Know?
Both the larvae and adults contain hydrogen cyanide, making them highly toxic to predators.
Puss Moth
A furry white moth whose caterpillar has whip-like tail filaments and sprays formic acid.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar can shoot a jet of formic acid from a gland behind its head.