Meadow Brown vs Arctic Tussock Moth
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Meadow Brown | Arctic Tussock Moth |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Maniola jurtina | Dicallomera fascelina |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Nymphalidae | Erebidae |
| Size | Wingspan 40-55mm | 35-45 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Grasslands | Forests |
| Diet | Herbivores | Omnivores |
| Regions | Europe | Scandinavia, Finland, northern Russia, Scotland |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Meadow Brown
The most abundant butterfly in Britain, a brown species with a single eyespot on each forewing.
Did You Know?
So common it is often overlooked but plays a crucial role as a pollinator of wildflowers in grasslands.
Arctic Tussock Moth
A medium-sized moth with pale grayish-white wings in males and larger, more robust females. The caterpillar is strikingly hairy with tufted dark and pale hairs. It is found in northern heathlands and boreal forests.
Did You Know?
The caterpillar's dense coat of hairs acts as insulation, allowing it to bask in the sun and raise its body temperature for active feeding.