.jpg&width=800)
Small Magpie
ExploreInsects
Small Magpie
Anania hortulata
The Small Magpie is a colorful moth with beautiful patterns on its wings. It flutters around gardens and fields, bringing joy to those who spot it!
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Small Magpie moth has distinct creamy-white wings boldly marked with irregular black blotches and bands. Its body is also white with black markings, creating a striking checkerboard appearance. This pattern makes it easily recognizable among other small moths.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyCrambidaeGenusAnania
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
Be the first to snap!
Interesting facts
Baby Small Magpie moths are caterpillars that munch on nettle leaves, transforming completely!
Even though it's called a 'magpie,' it's a moth, not a bird, and it's tiny!
Its scientific name, 'hortulata,' means 'of the garden,' as it loves garden plants!
This moth often rests with its wings spread flat, showcasing its striking checkerboard pattern!
Special abilities
Ability
Pattern Play
Small Magpie has striking black and white wings that help it camouflage against patterned foliage or warn potential predators.
Ability
Scent Seeker
Small Magpie can detect tiny scent molecules using its antennae, which helps it find mates or suitable plants for its caterpillars.
Ability
Nectar Sip
Small Magpie has a long, coiled proboscis that allows it to drink nectar deeply from flowers, providing essential energy for flight.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 20-28 mm
- Size
- 10-14 mm
- Lifespan
- 14-25 days
- Flight Speed
- 5-8 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adult Small Magpies drink flower nectar; caterpillars eat various plant leaves, especially nettles.
Age differences: Larvae consume plant leaves, while adults feed on flower nectar for energy.
Primary Foods
- nectar
- nettle leaves
- mint leaves
- oregano leaves
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eats
Common Nettle
Urtica dioica
Larvae feed on its leaves.
pollinates
White Clover
Trifolium repens
Adults drink nectar, helping pollination.
eaten by
%2C_Parc_de_Woluw%C3%A9%2C_Brussels_(13042792905).jpg&width=800)
Great Tit
Parus major
A common predator of adult moths.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Don't touch moths, as they can be delicate and easily hurt.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Small Magpie's wingspan?
20-28 mm
How big is Small Magpie?
10-14 mm
How long does Small Magpie live?
14-25 days
How fast can Small Magpie fly?
5-8 km/h
What does Small Magpie eat?
Adult Small Magpies drink flower nectar; caterpillars eat various plant leaves, especially nettles.
Where is Small Magpie usually found?
Urban areas
How does Small Magpie hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Small Magpie have?
6
Snap Map
Zoom in to split clusters and explore where this object has been snapped.
Loading map…
Recent Snaps
Recent snaps will appear here as new observations are added.
.jpg&width=800)
