Winter Ant vs Emperor Gum Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Winter Ant Emperor Gum Moth
Scientific Name Prenolepis imparis Opodiphthera eucalypti
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Formicidae Saturniidae
Size 3-4 mm 100-150 mm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Woodlands
Diet Nectar Feeders Predators
Regions North America Australia, Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Winter Ant

A small brown ant unique for being most active during cold months when other ants are dormant. Replete workers store liquid food in distended abdomens for the colony.

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Did You Know?

They hold their nuptial flights in late winter or early spring, sometimes walking over snow to mate.

Emperor Gum Moth

A large and attractive native moth with prominent eyespots on each wing that serve as a startle defence against predators. It is one of the largest moths in southern Australia.

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Did You Know?

The large eyespots on its wings are thought to mimic the eyes of an owl, frightening away potential bird predators.