Violet Dropwing vs Buff Arches

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Violet Dropwing Buff Arches
Scientific Name Trithemis annulata Habrosyne pyritoides
Order Odonata Lepidoptera
Family Libellulidae Drepanidae
Size 32-38 mm 38-43 mm wingspan
Habitat Ponds & Lakes Underground
Diet Omnivores Omnivores
Regions Africa, Europe, Asia Europe, temperate Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Violet Dropwing

A stunning dragonfly where mature males turn deep violet-purple with red wing veins. It is expanding its range northward into southern Europe.

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Did You Know?

It has colonized southern Europe from Africa and continues to spread north as temperatures warm.

Buff Arches

A moth with intricate grey, white, and buff patterns creating a complex marbled effect on its forewings. It is closely related to the peach blossom and shares its bramble association.

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Did You Know?

Its wing pattern is so complex that no simple description captures it, leading some to call it 'baroque'.