PacSciLife: A peek behind the scenes of Pacific Science Center’s Life Sciences Department including the latest news from our famous Tropical Butterfly House, Naked Mole Rat colony, Puget Sound Tidepool, Insect Village, reptiles, amphibians, horticultural displays and much, much more.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Atlas Moths
While the weather outside is … err … frightful this time of year, the Tropical Butterfly House is a balmy, relaxing sanctuary. Not only is it warm and toasty, we have just released four gorgeous atlas moths. This is very exciting for a number of reasons:
1. We haven’t had atlas moths at PSC in over two years! If you’ve never seen them before, it’s a must. If it’s been awhile, they’re probably even more beautiful than you remember.
2. Because they don’t have any mouthparts, atlas moths only live for about three to four days. We still have about four more chrysalides waiting to emerge. But any way you slice it, they won’t be here long.
3. Atlas moths have the largest wingspan of any insect - They each have a wingspan of about 6-7 inches.
The moths have been placed on larger trees where they can’t be touched. They may move at any time but they’re nocturnal so they shouldn’t go far unless provoked. Enjoy hunting for them when you visit, or ask a Science Interpreter for help.
PS Bring your camera! They’re very photogenic!
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