Lorquin's Atlas Moth

Description:

The Lorquin's Atlas or Philippine Giant Silk moths are predominantly tawny to maroon in colour with roughly triangular, diaphanous "eyes" on both forewing and hindwing, bordered in black. The purpose of these dramatic, gossamer portals is not clear, but they are thought to play a role in predator avoidance. Their bodies are hairy and disproportionately small compared to their wings.

Habitat:

Urban garden.

Notes:

Giant silk moths are cultivated for their silk in a non-commercial capacity; unlike that produced by the related Silkworm moth (Bombyx mori), Silk moth's silk is secreted as broken strands. This brown, wool-like silk is thought to have greater durability and is known as fagara. Additional reference at http://www.jpmoth.org/~dmoth/Digital_Mot....