Red Underwing vs Lotis Blue Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Red Underwing Lotis Blue Butterfly
Scientific Name Catocala nupta Lycaeides argyrognomon lotis
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Erebidae Lycaenidae
Size Wingspan 70-82mm 2-2.5 cm wingspan
Habitat Woodlands Beaches & Coastal
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe, Asia United States
Conservation Least Concern Critically Endangered

Red Underwing

A large moth with bark-like grey forewings and vivid red and black banded hindwings flashed as a startle defense.

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Did You Know?

When disturbed from tree bark it flashes its bright red hindwings creating a startle effect then vanishes by closing them.

Lotis Blue Butterfly

A small blue butterfly historically found in sphagnum bog habitats in coastal Mendocino County, California. It has not been seen since 1983.

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Did You Know?

Despite extensive searches, no living individuals have been found in over 40 years.