Spurge Hawkmoth vs Horse Sucking Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Spurge Hawkmoth Horse Sucking Louse
Scientific Name Hyles euphorbiae Haematopinus asini
Order Lepidoptera Phthiraptera
Family Sphingidae Haematopinidae
Size 60-80 mm wingspan 2.5-3.5 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Omnivores Blood Feeders
Regions Europe, Central Asia Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Spurge Hawkmoth

A striking hawkmoth with olive and pink forewings and rosy-red hindwings with a black base. Its caterpillar is equally spectacular with red, black, yellow, and white markings.

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Did You Know?

It has been introduced to North America as a biological control agent for invasive leafy spurge.

Horse Sucking Louse

A large blood-sucking louse found on horses, donkeys, and mules. It prefers areas with long hair such as the mane, forelock, and tail base.

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Did You Know?

Infested horses develop a rough, dull coat and the constant irritation can cause significant weight loss.