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Gary Hebert | all galleries >> Nature and The Outdoors >> Wonders of Nature >> Butterflies & Moths >> Attacus Atlas Moth > Portrait - Attacus Atlas Moth - male
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30-AUG-2007 © 2007 Gary Hebert

Portrait - Attacus Atlas Moth - male

Butterfly Gardens, Calgary Zoo

The Atlas Moth is the largest moth in the world with a wingspan of approximately 20 cm (8 inches). The moth's wing patterns consist of large triangular eyespots and strongly curved tips of the forewings, especially in males. The Atlas moth's wings are almost ruby red making this moth a prized collection piece for insect connoisseurs. Adult moths do not feed and so only live a short time. During this time, the moths undergo the reproductive process. Females give off a strong pheromone (chemical) scent that is capable of being detected by the sensitive antennae of the male who may be several kilometers away. Once together, the male and female mate, after which the female lays up to several hundred eggs. Both adults then die a few hours later.


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Greg Harp20-Sep-2007 22:51
Outstanding macro. V
Char15-Sep-2007 12:47
Hi Gary,
A wonderful picture with great details and colours. \/
Guest 14-Sep-2007 19:58
They're so grand, great image...v
Guest 14-Sep-2007 14:10
Great crop! V
Guest 14-Sep-2007 13:40
Nice details on this beauty Gary.