Silver-ground Carpet vs Lord Howe Island Stick Insect

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Silver-ground Carpet Lord Howe Island Stick Insect
Scientific Name Xanthorhoe montanata Dryococelus australis
Order Lepidoptera Phasmatodea
Family Geometridae Phasmatidae
Size 26-30 mm wingspan 120-150 mm
Habitat Gardens Heathland
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Oceania
Conservation Least Concern Critically Endangered

Silver-ground Carpet

A common and attractive geometer moth frequently disturbed from vegetation during daytime walks. White with grey-brown central band. Found in a variety of habitats from gardens to mountains.

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Did You Know?

Commonly flushed from undergrowth when walking through tall vegetation, flying a short distance before resettling.

Lord Howe Island Stick Insect

Once thought extinct after rats were introduced in 1918, a tiny population was rediscovered in 2001 on Balls Pyramid, a volcanic sea stack 23 km from Lord Howe Island.

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Did You Know?

Fewer than 30 individuals were found clinging to a single bush on a barren sea stack — making this the rarest insect rediscovery in history. Captive breeding saved the species.