Atlas spinners

Attacus atlas

Family: Peacock spiders (Saturniidae)

Wingspan: Approx. 25 cm

Host plant: Several different plant species such as true cinnamon, rambutan and species in the citrus genus.

The Atlas spider is one of the largest butterflies in the world, with a wingspan of up to 30 cm. Larger than the width of a human hand. The butterfly lives mostly in tropical forests in Asia. The Atlas spider is characterized by its unique wing pattern that resembles a map. This is probably the origin of the butterfly's name. The wings are covered in shades of brown, red, orange and white. The outermost tip of each upper wing has a protruding point resembling a snake's head, which helps to scare off potential predators.

The Atlas moth is mainly nocturnal. The male butterflies fly more than the females because they are actively looking for a mate. The males use their sensitive antennae to detect fermones, scents, released by the females. The adult butterfly has no functioning mouthparts and therefore cannot eat. It only lives for 4-6 days.