Herald Moth vs Splendid Ochre

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Herald Moth Splendid Ochre
Scientific Name Scoliopteryx libatrix Trapezites petalia
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Hesperiidae
Size 40-46 mm wingspan 3-4 cm wingspan
Habitat Caves Heathland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia, North America Australia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

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.

Splendid Ochre

A moderately large skipper butterfly with bright orange uppersides and mottled brown undersides. Males perch conspicuously on low vegetation to defend territories.

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Did You Know?

It is one of the largest skipper butterflies in Australia.