Zebra Swallowtail vs Brown House Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Zebra Swallowtail | Brown House Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Eurytides marcellus | Hofmannophila pseudospretella |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Papilionidae | Oecophoridae |
| Size | 64-100 mm wingspan | 15-25 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Woodlands | Indoors |
| Diet | Omnivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Eastern United States | Cosmopolitan; believed native to Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Zebra Swallowtail
A pale greenish-white swallowtail with bold black stripes and very long hindwing tails. Its striking zebra-like pattern makes it one of the most recognizable North American butterflies.
Did You Know?
Spring-emerging individuals have shorter tails and darker markings than the larger, paler summer generation.
Brown House Moth
A dull bronze-brown moth with darker flecks that is a widespread household pest. Unlike clothes moths, it feeds on a vast range of organic materials.
Did You Know?
It can complete its life cycle on a diet of owl pellets alone, making old bird nests ideal nurseries.