Small Tortoiseshell vs Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Small Tortoiseshell | Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Aglais urticae | Rhaphiomidas terminatus abdominalis |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Mydidae |
| Size | Wingspan 45-55mm | 2.5-3.5 cm |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Beaches & Coastal |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe, Asia | United States |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Endangered |
Small Tortoiseshell
A familiar orange butterfly with black and yellow markings and a row of blue crescents along the wing margins. It hibernates in buildings over winter.
Did You Know?
Adults hibernate in attics and sheds and can survive freezing temperatures by producing glycerol as natural antifreeze.
Delhi Sands Flower-loving Fly
A large flower fly endemic to the Delhi Sands area of San Bernardino County, California. It was the first fly to be listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.
Did You Know?
Listing this fly in 1993 caused controversy when it delayed construction of a hospital in its habitat.