Lesser Atlas Moth
Common NameLesser Atlas Moth
Scientific NameAttacus taprobanis
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)130
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, ochre, white, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeSri Lanka, Southern India
Host PlantsCinnamomum, Citrus, Mangifera
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, with multiple broods
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesAdults are short-lived and do not feed, relying on energy reserves from the larval stage. Larvae are large, feed on various broadleaf trees, and pupate in a silk cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, the distinctive 'snake head' mimicry at the forewing tips, and the specific pattern of broad white and yellow bands on a brown and reddish-brown background.
Description
A very large, robust moth with broad, intricately patterned wings. Its wings are predominantly shades of brown and reddish-brown, adorned with prominent white and yellow bands and markings.
