Snow Scorpionfly vs German Scorpionfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Snow Scorpionfly German Scorpionfly
Scientific Name Boreus hyemalis Panorpa germanica
Order Mecoptera Mecoptera
Family Boreidae Panorpidae
Size 3-5 mm 12-16 mm
Habitat Forests Woodlands
Diet Omnivores Carrion Feeders
Regions Europe Europe
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Snow Scorpionfly

A tiny wingless scorpionfly active in winter, walking on snow near mossy habitats. Its vestigial wings are reduced to hook-like structures used during mating.

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Did You Know?

Snow scorpionflies are most active at temperatures near freezing and can sometimes be found by the hundreds walking across snow-covered moss.

German Scorpionfly

A scorpionfly with bold wing markings found in shaded woodland habitats across central Europe. Like other Panorpa species, it has a distinctive elongated face.

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Did You Know?

German scorpionflies frequently steal prey from spider webs, delicately plucking trapped insects without becoming ensnared themselves.