Svalbard Rove Beetle vs Emperor Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Svalbard Rove Beetle | Emperor Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Atheta islandica | Saturnia pavonia |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Staphylinidae | Saturniidae |
| Size | 2-3 mm | 55-85 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Heathland | Heathland |
| Diet | Predators | Omnivores |
| Regions | Iceland, Svalbard, northern Scandinavia, Greenland | Europe, temperate Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Svalbard Rove Beetle
A tiny, dark brown rove beetle found in some of the most northerly terrestrial habitats on Earth. It shelters in bird nests and guano deposits where the microclimate is warmer. Adults are active predators of mites.
Did You Know?
This beetle survives in the High Arctic partly by living in seabird colonies where decomposing guano generates warmth.
Emperor Moth
Europe's only native member of the giant silk moth family, with prominent eyespots on all four wings. Males are colourful day-fliers while females are larger and nocturnal.
Did You Know?
Males can detect a virgin female's scent from over a mile away using their huge feathered antennae.