Tundra Robber Fly vs Processionary Caterpillar Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Tundra Robber Fly | Processionary Caterpillar Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Rhadiurgus variabilis | Ochrogaster lunifer |
| Order | Diptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Asilidae | Notodontidae |
| Size | 10-15 mm | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Beaches & Coastal | Woodlands |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Scandinavia, Finland, Scotland, northern Russia | Australia, Oceania |
| 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.
Processionary Caterpillar Moth
A moth whose caterpillars are famous for travelling in long, nose-to-tail processions through the Australian bush. The larvae are covered in irritating hairs that can cause severe allergic reactions in humans.
Did You Know?
Processions of caterpillars can stretch for metres and contain hundreds of individuals following a silk trail left by the leader.