πŸ¦‹ Butterflies & Moths

Vampire Moth

Calyptra thalictri

About Vampire Moth

A dull grey-brown moth with a uniquely evolved proboscis capable of piercing mammalian skin. Males occasionally drink blood for sodium.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the only moths known to drink blood from mammals including humans using its hardened barbed proboscis.

How to Identify Vampire Moth

Vampire Moth (Calyptra thalictri) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Erebidae. Adults typically measure Wingspan 40-50mm.

Vampire Moth Habitat

Vampire Moth is found in rivers & streams habitats, particularly across Europe, Asia. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.

Vampire Moth Diet and Feeding

Vampire Moth is a blood-feeding species that obtains nutrients by feeding on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals. Blood feeders have specialised mouthparts adapted for piercing skin.

Where Is Vampire Moth Found?

Vampire Moth can be found in Europe, Asia, where it inhabits rivers & streams environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.

Distribution Map

Where Vampire Moth can be found

Is Vampire Moth Dangerous?

Vampire Moth is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals to obtain a blood meal. Bites can cause irritation, itching, and in some cases allergic reactions. Some blood-feeding insects are known to transmit diseases, so precautions should be taken to avoid bites.

Vampire Moth Role in Nature

Vampire Moth plays a role in its ecosystem as part of the food web, serving as both consumer and prey. Insects like Vampire Moth are a vital food source for birds, bats, and other wildlife, and contribute to the overall health and balance of their environment.

Seasonal Activity

Jan
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Dec
Peak activity Moderate Low / dormant

Frequently Asked Questions About Vampire Moth

What does Vampire Moth look like?

The Vampire Moth typically measures Wingspan 40-50mm.

Where is Vampire Moth found?

The Vampire Moth is found in Europe, Asia and typically inhabits rivers & streams environments.

What does Vampire Moth eat?

The Vampire Moth feeds on the blood of mammals, birds, or other animals.

Is Vampire Moth dangerous to humans?

The Vampire Moth is a blood-feeding insect that bites humans and animals. Some blood feeders can transmit diseases. Take precautions to avoid bites.

What is an interesting fact about Vampire Moth?

It is one of the only moths known to drink blood from mammals including humans using its hardened barbed proboscis.

Cite This Page

APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Vampire Moth (Calyptra thalictri). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/vampire-moth

MLA:
"Vampire Moth." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/vampire-moth.