Willowherb Hawk Moth vs Mountain Dance Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Willowherb Hawk Moth | Mountain Dance Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Proserpinus proserpina | Empis pennipes |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Sphingidae | Empididae |
| Size | 36-46 mm | 5-8 mm body length |
| Habitat | Rivers & Streams | Rivers & Streams |
| Diet | Nectar Feeders | Predators |
| Regions | Central and southern Europe, North Africa, western Asia | Europe, Alps, Scandinavia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Willowherb Hawk Moth
A compact hawk moth with olive-green forewings and bright orange hindwings with a dark border. It flies at dusk and is found in damp habitats across southern and central Europe.
Did You Know?
This species is listed in Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive, making it legally protected across the European Union.
Mountain Dance Fly
A predatory fly with feathery leg fringes used in aerial mating displays. Males offer prey gifts wrapped in silk to females during courtship.
Did You Know?
Males with the most elaborate feathered legs are preferred by females during mating swarms.