Great Mullein Weevil vs Herald Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Great Mullein Weevil Herald Moth
Scientific Name Cionus thapsus Scoliopteryx libatrix
Order Coleoptera Lepidoptera
Family Curculionidae Erebidae
Size 3-4.5 mm 40-46 mm wingspan
Habitat Grasslands Caves
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe, Asia, North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Great Mullein Weevil

A small rounded weevil found exclusively on great mullein plants. Similar to the figwort weevil but associated with different host plants. Larvae are external feeders in mucous cocoons.

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Did You Know?

Each larva lives inside its own slimy mucous cocoon attached to the mullein leaf surface.

Herald Moth

A distinctive moth with scalloped wing edges and orange patches that hibernates in caves, cellars, and outbuildings. One of the first moths to be seen each spring. Adults resemble dead leaves.

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Did You Know?

Often hibernates in caves alongside bats, and can survive freezing temperatures during winter.