Willow Beauty vs Swallowtail Butterfly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Willow Beauty | Swallowtail Butterfly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Peribatodes rhomboidaria | Papilio machaon |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Geometridae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 38-48 mm wingspan | 65-86 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Underground |
| Diet | Omnivores | Predators |
| Regions | Europe, western Asia | Europe, Asia, North America |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Willow Beauty
A well-camouflaged moth with grey-brown wings marked with dark cross-lines that blends perfectly with tree bark. It is one of the most common moths found in gardens.
Did You Know?
Like the peppered moth, it has developed a darker form in areas affected by industrial pollution.
Swallowtail Butterfly
Elegant butterfly with yellow wings marked with black veins and blue-red eyespots on hindwings. The tail extensions on hindwings divert predator attacks from the body.
Did You Know?
Swallowtail caterpillars have a hidden orange forked organ called an osmeterium that they pop out from behind their head when threatened, releasing a foul smell.