Atlas Moth
Common NameAtlas Moth
Scientific NameAttacus atlas
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)270
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, cream, black
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, secondary growth, shrublands
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Southern China, Malay Archipelago, India
Host Plantscitrus, cinnamon, guava, coffee, salix, aillanthus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical climates (adults live 1-2 weeks)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, green, and powdery-white, feeding voraciously. They pupate in large silken cocoons attached to branches. Adults have vestigial mouthparts and do not feed, relying on stored energy from the larval stage for their short reproductive lifespan.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its immense size (one of the largest moths in the world), the unique transparent triangular fenestrae on its wings, and the striking snake-head mimicry at the forewing tips. The intricate patterns of brown, orange, and white are also characteristic.
Description
A very large, heavy-bodied moth with broad, intricately patterned wings featuring prominent triangular transparent windows and distinctive snake-head-like tips on the forewings. The coloration is a complex mosaic of browns, oranges, creams, and blacks.
