Gorgeous Giant leopard moth
Giant leopard moth:
Giant leopard moth
Common name: Giant leopard moth
Scientific name: Hypercompe scribonea
Distribution:
Native to Southern-central America. Found across southern United states from New England to Mexico.
Description:
The adult giant leopard moth has a wingspan of about 3 inches. The wings are bright white with iridescent black circular markings. The markings on the back is deep iridescent blue while the marking on wings are black. The upper sides of the legs are white with 2 or 3 black bands. The lower sides of the legs are fully black. It has a deep blue abdomen with orange markings and blue antennae.
Caterpillar of Gient Leopard moth
The caterpillar of this moth is black and woolly with orange bands on back,when disturbed the caterpillar rolls into a ball for defence.
Habit:
Giant leopard moth is nocturnal and seldom becomes active in daylight. They come outside mostly after dusk.
Importance:
Like most other insects, giant leopard moth plays an important role in food chain. Also it is kept as a pet for their splendid beauty.
