Sycamore Moth vs Orange-barred Sulphur

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Sycamore Moth Orange-barred Sulphur
Scientific Name Acronicta aceris Phoebis philea
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Pieridae
Size Wingspan 35-45mm Wingspan 67-80mm
Habitat Underground Underground
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia North America, South America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Sycamore Moth

A plain grey moth whose caterpillar is spectacular with white tufts and bright orange and yellow hair patches.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillar is one of the most colorful in Europe with dense white hairs and bright orange-yellow tufts.

Orange-barred Sulphur

A large bright yellow butterfly with orange bar markings on the upper forewings. Females are more muted with reddish markings.

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Did You Know?

Males patrol large territories and engage in spiraling aerial battles with rivals that can last several minutes.