Nature's Wake Blog — moth RSS



The Atlas Moth

The Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas) is one of the largest species of moth and is endemic to the forests of Asia. It has a wingspan that can measure up to 9.4" with the females being larger than the males. The only moths that are bigger than the Altas are the White Witch, Attacus Ceaser and Hercules moths. These moths are born without mouths with the sole purpose to mate. They will live off stored fat while they search for a mate, mainly by females releasing pheromones into the air to attract the males, so they only live for one to two weeks. Their silk can be used but is not as great as other insects, so it is not used in...

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The Madagascan Sunset Moth

The Madagascan Sunset Moth (Chrysiridia rhipheus) is a day-flying moth with some of the most gorgeous and shining colours you can find on an insect. It can be found throughout the year on the island of Madagascar and is most plentiful between March and August.  This moth closely resembles swallowtail butterflies, which can trick some into thinking it is not a moth. There was even some confusion when it was first discovered. This colourful beauty has a wingspan of 7-11cm depending on the region it is found.  The colour of the Madagascan Sunset Moth does not come from pigment. It actually comes from optical interference and inter-scale reflection from the curved scales and cuticle layers that make up the wings. The bright...

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