Western Large-headed Bee vs Four-barred Swordtail

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Western Large-headed Bee Four-barred Swordtail
Scientific Name Ctenocolletes smaragdinus Protographium leosthenes
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Stenotritidae Papilionidae
Size 10-14 mm 6-7 cm wingspan
Habitat Heathland Forests
Diet Nectar Feeders Nectar Feeders
Regions Western Australia Australia, Papua New Guinea
Conservation Data Deficient Least Concern

Western Large-headed Bee

A metallic green bee endemic to Western Australia that belongs to the ancient family Stenotritidae. It nests in sandy soil and forages on native shrubs.

💡

Did You Know?

Its metallic green coloring is unusual for the Stenotritidae family, most of which are dull brown or black.

Four-barred Swordtail

A distinctive swallowtail with translucent wings crossed by four dark bars and a long sword-like tail. It has a rapid, darting flight pattern.

💡

Did You Know?

Its nearly transparent wings make it extremely difficult to spot in dappled rainforest light.