Locust Borer vs Death Head Hawk Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Locust Borer | Death Head Hawk Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Megacyllene robiniae | Acherontia lachesis |
| Order | Coleoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Cerambycidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 14-22 mm | 100-130 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Farmland |
| Diet | Pollen Feeders | Herbivores |
| Regions | Eastern and Central North America | Asia |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Locust Borer
A striking yellow-and-black wasp mimic that attacks black locust trees in North America. Adults appear in autumn and are commonly found on goldenrod flowers. Larval boring weakens locust trunks and can cause breakage.
Did You Know?
Adults synchronize their emergence with goldenrod bloom, making autumn fields their primary mating arenas.
Death Head Hawk Moth
An Asian death head moth that squeaks loudly and raids bee hives for honey.
Did You Know?
It produces a chemical that mimics bee pheromones to avoid attack inside hives.