Twin-spot Centurion vs Giant Swallowtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Twin-spot Centurion Giant Swallowtail
Scientific Name Sargus bipunctatus Papilio cresphontes
Order Diptera Lepidoptera
Family Stratiomyidae Papilionidae
Size 8-13 mm 100-160 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Woodlands
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe North America, Central America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Twin-spot Centurion

A metallic bronze-green soldier fly with two characteristic pale spots on the frons. It is one of the most common stratiomyids in Europe, found basking on ivy flowers in autumn.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the last flies to be active in autumn, still visiting ivy flowers well into November.

Giant Swallowtail

The largest butterfly in North America with dark brown wings crossed by yellow bands. Larvae resemble bird droppings for camouflage.

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Did You Know?

Its caterpillars are called Orange Dogs because they can be pests in citrus orchards.