Argent and Sable Moth vs Green-legged Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Argent and Sable Moth Green-legged Sawfly
Scientific Name Rheumaptera hastata Perga dorsalis
Order Lepidoptera Hymenoptera
Family Geometridae Pergidae
Size 28-34 mm wingspan 12-18 mm (adult)
Habitat Woodlands Farmland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Northern Europe Australia
Conservation Near Threatened Not Evaluated

Argent and Sable Moth

A strikingly patterned black and white day-flying moth. Found on moorland and in birch woodland. Has declined severely in southern parts of its range. Named from heraldic terms.

💡

Did You Know?

Named using heraldic terms: 'argent' for silver/white and 'sable' for black, describing its bold pattern.

Green-legged Sawfly

An Australian pergid whose larvae feed gregariously on eucalyptus foliage. Heavy defoliation can stress and weaken young plantation trees.

💡

Did You Know?

Larvae regurgitate a pungent eucalyptus-oil-based liquid as a chemical defense against birds.