Vampire Moth vs Chimera Birdwing

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Vampire Moth Chimera Birdwing
Scientific Name Calyptra thalictri Ornithoptera chimaera
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Papilionidae
Size Wingspan 40-50mm 140-190 mm wingspan
Habitat Rivers & Streams Mountains
Diet Blood Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia Oceania (Papua New Guinea - highlands)
Conservation Least Concern Near Threatened

Vampire Moth

A dull grey-brown moth with a uniquely evolved proboscis capable of piercing mammalian skin. Males occasionally drink blood for sodium.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the only moths known to drink blood from mammals including humans using its hardened barbed proboscis.

Chimera Birdwing

A large montane birdwing butterfly found in the highlands of Papua New Guinea. It occurs at elevations between 1200 and 2000 metres, higher than most other birdwings. Males have bright green and gold markings on black wings.

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Did You Know?

Named after the chimera of Greek mythology, this butterfly's iridescent wing colours shift dramatically depending on the angle of light.