Sooty Ringlet vs Lichen Katydid
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Sooty Ringlet | Lichen Katydid |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Erebia pluto | Dysonia sp. (Dysonia magdalenae) |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Orthoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Tettigoniidae |
| Size | 36-44 mm wingspan | 30-45 mm |
| Habitat | Mountains | Mountains |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Alps | Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Sooty Ringlet
One of the darkest European butterflies, almost entirely black. It inhabits the highest scree slopes and rock faces in the Alps.
Did You Know?
Its nearly black wings help absorb solar radiation for warmth in its frigid habitat.
Lichen Katydid
A Central American katydid with a mottled gray-green body that perfectly mimics lichen on bark. It is nearly invisible when pressed against a tree trunk.
Did You Know?
It feeds on the same lichen it mimics, making it both predator and impersonator of its food source.