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Approximately 12cm long it walked on it's legs while the back part moved like a fat finger
I found this in my local park (Elsternwick)
This is a stunning creature and I was really taken a back when I saw it.
Spotted on Apr 3, 2011
Submitted on Apr 3, 2011
9 Comments
This looks like the same moth. There are a few IDs suggested too.
http://www.whatsthatbug.com/2009/04/26/l...
I really can't say without a better photo, and especially one with the wings extended. You're best bet is to look here: http://lepidoptera.butterflyhouse.com.au...
So is that what you think it is? A large goat wattle moth or a Giant wood moth? I'm really curious as to what species it is (scientific name if possible)
Wow, thanks lori. I had no idea that moths could get so big.
Here's a photo I took if the Small wattle goat moth: http://www.projectnoah.org/spottings/517...
Btw, welcome to the Antipodian contingent on NOAH. I'm one of the "Rangers" so give me a heads up if you have a question. Cheers, Lori.
I don't recognize that particular moth, but the Large goat wattle moth is about 12 cm long, and the Giant wood moth is even bigger (and the heaviest moth in the world). I caught a Giant wood moth once and it felt like I had a bird in my hands. So, yeah, it's a moth whose wings are still waiting to be extended by pumping fluid from its body into its wings.
I would buy that it's a new moth if it wasn't the size of my hand
It looks like it has undeveloped wings so it may be a new moth.
That's cool!