Small Fan-footed Wave vs Poplar Sawfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Small Fan-footed Wave Poplar Sawfly
Scientific Name Idaea biselata Trichiocampus viminalis
Order Lepidoptera Hymenoptera
Family Geometridae Tenthredinidae
Size 20-24 mm wingspan 7-10 mm
Habitat Woodlands Underground
Diet Herbivores Herbivores
Regions Europe Europe, temperate Asia
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Small Fan-footed Wave

A small, delicate moth with pale buff wings and fine dark cross-lines. Common in deciduous woodland. Larvae feed on dead leaves on the woodland floor.

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Did You Know?

Named for the male's fan-shaped front legs that are displayed during courtship.

Poplar Sawfly

A small sawfly with a yellow-orange body and black head. Its brightly colored yellow-and-black larvae feed on poplar and willow leaves in conspicuous clusters.

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Did You Know?

The larvae display classic aposematic coloration with bold yellow and black markings, warning predators of their unpalatability.