Square-spot Rustic vs Japanese Yellow Swallowtail
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Square-spot Rustic | Japanese Yellow Swallowtail |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Xestia xanthographa | Papilio machaon hippocrates |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Noctuidae | Papilionidae |
| Size | 32-38 mm wingspan | 70-90 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Gardens | Mountains |
| Diet | Root Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Europe | East Asia, Japan |
| Conservation | Least Concern | Least Concern |
Square-spot Rustic
An extremely common autumn-flying moth with a diagnostic square stigma on the forewing. One of the most abundant moths in British gardens. Larvae feed on grasses.
Did You Know?
Often the single most abundant moth species in garden moth traps during September.
Japanese Yellow Swallowtail
The Japanese subspecies of the Old World swallowtail, known as 'ki-ageha.' A large and elegant butterfly with bright yellow wings marked with black patterns and blue hindwing spots.
Did You Know?
This butterfly engages in 'hilltopping' behavior, where males fly to hilltops and ridges to establish territories and wait for females.