Attacus atlas atlas

(Linnaeus, 1758)

Vernacular names
English : Atlas moth
French : Papillon atlas

Classification
Class : Insecta
Order : Lepidoptera
Family : Saturniidae
Notes : Up to 4 other subspecies known.

Identification
One of the largest butterfly species in the world, reaching a wingspan of 30 cm. Caterpillars can reach 17 cm in length. Very large rich brown wings with triangular white markings. Tip of wings’ markings make it look like a snake’s head.

Range and habitat
The species occurs in South-east Asia, from Pakistan and India to South China, south to Peninsular Malaysia and western Indonesia (including Borneo). Lives in tropical and subtropical forests (dry forests mostly) and woodlands.

Conservation
IUCN RED LIST : NOT LISTED
CITES : Not listed
Status : This species has yet to be assessed but has a huge range and is considered locally common to abundant, especially around Malaysia.
Ex-Situ Programs : None known

Observation

 

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