Early Thorn vs Forest Queen Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Early Thorn Forest Queen Butterfly
Scientific Name Selenia dentaria Euxanthe wakefieldi
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Geometridae Nymphalidae
Size 32-40 mm wingspan 75-90 mm wingspan
Habitat Underground Forests
Diet Herbivores Sap Feeders
Regions Europe East Africa (Kenya coast, Tanzania coast)
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Early Thorn

A moth that resembles a dead leaf when at rest, with twig-like resting posture. The spring generation is larger and darker than the summer generation. Comes readily to light.

💡

Did You Know?

When at rest, this moth perches with wings raised over its back like a butterfly, mimicking a dead leaf.

Forest Queen Butterfly

A large, striking butterfly with dark brown wings marked by broad bands of apple green. It is a powerful flier that glides through the canopy of East African coastal forests.

💡

Did You Know?

Males are highly territorial and patrol the same canopy flight paths daily, chasing away intruders with impressive aerial agility.