Tundra Robber Fly vs Common Birdwing
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tundra Robber Fly | Common Birdwing |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rhadiurgus variabilis | Troides helena |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Asilidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 10-15 mm | Wingspan 140-190mm |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Wetlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Finland, Scotland, northern Russia | Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Tundra Robber Fly
A medium-sized robber fly with a dark body and distinctive bristly face. It is an aerial predator that ambushes other flying insects from perches on rocks and low vegetation. Adults have powerful grasping legs.
Did You Know?
This robber fly catches prey in midair and injects digestive enzymes to liquefy the insect's insides before drinking them.
Common Birdwing
A large birdwing butterfly with velvety black forewings and bright golden-yellow hindwings in males. Females are larger and browner.
Did You Know?
Despite being common it is listed under CITES Appendix II which regulates its international trade.