Cistus Forester vs Small Magpie Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Cistus Forester Small Magpie Moth
Scientific Name Adscita statices Anania hortulata
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Zygaenidae Crambidae
Size 24-28 mm wingspan 26-30 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Underground
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe, Western Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Cistus Forester

A small, metallic green day-flying moth found on chalk grassland and damp meadows. Males have feathery antennae. Larvae feed on common sorrel and sheep's sorrel.

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Did You Know?

The metallic green wings glow brilliantly in sunshine, making this one of the most jewel-like of all European moths.

Small Magpie Moth

A pretty white moth with black spots and a yellow head. Despite its name, it is a crambid rather than a geometrid like the true Magpie Moth.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillar lives inside a rolled leaf shelter that it spins shut with silk.