Common Rustic vs Tiger Crane Fly
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Common Rustic | Tiger Crane Fly |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Mesapamea secalis | Nephrotoma flavescens |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Diptera |
| Family | Noctuidae | Tipulidae |
| Size | 26-34 mm wingspan | 13-18 mm body length |
| Habitat | Farmland | Underground |
| Diet | Herbivores | Herbivores |
| Regions | Europe | Europe |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Common Rustic
A highly variable common moth that forms a species complex with the Lesser Common Rustic. External appearance is unreliable for identification. Larvae feed inside grass stems.
Did You Know?
So similar to its sibling species that they were not recognized as separate species until 1983.
Tiger Crane Fly
A striking yellow crane fly with bold black stripes on the thorax. Adults are commonly found basking on sunny foliage in summer.
Did You Know?
Its bold yellow and black thoracic stripes make it the most colorful European crane fly.