Atlas Moth Recorded in Karnataka

A rare Atlas Moth (Attacus atlas), among the world’s largest moths, has been recorded from the Karwar region of coastal Karnataka, highlighting rich monsoon biodiversity across the Western Ghats. The species is native to Asian tropical forests and occurs in India, including the Western Ghats belt.

Sighting and location

The observation from coastal Karnataka aligns with the Atlas Moth’s known Indian range, which includes humid evergreen and semi-evergreen forests where host plants are plentiful. Similar Western Ghats records have been documented by Indian naturalists, indicating sporadic but recurring presence during the rainy season. Such sightings often follow heavy showers when adults emerge and rest on trunks, walls or shrubs.

Species profile and size

Attacus atlas is famed for sheer size. Females commonly span about 25–27 cm across, and exceptional individuals approach 30 cm. Its total wing area is among the largest in Lepidoptera. The rust-brown wings carry bold white and black markings, while the forewing tips resemble snake heads, a likely predator deterrent. Females tend to be larger and heavier; males are slightly smaller but appear broader-winged in flight.

Life cycle, feeding and behaviour

Caterpillars feed voraciously on leaves of citrus, guava, cinnamon and other trees, storing energy before pupation in a papery cocoon. Adults emerge as weak fliers with non-functional mouthparts. They do not eat and live briefly—typically one to two weeks—focused on mating and egg-laying. Males possess feathery antennae to detect female pheromones over distance. After reproduction, adults die; predation by birds, ants and wasps is common as individuals weaken with age.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Atlas Moth adults do not feed; energy is stored from the larval stage.
• Typical wingspan is 25–27 cm; rare individuals approach 30 cm.
• Larval host plants include citrus, guava and cinnamon.
• Forewing tips mimic a snake head to deter predators.

Habitat, seasonality and conservation notes

The species prefers warm, humid habitats—coastal and montane forests—with dense foliage supporting larval development. Monsoon months increase detectability as fresh adults emerge and remain conspicuous with wings spread. While not globally listed as threatened, local pressures such as habitat loss, pesticide drift and light pollution can suppress populations. Protecting mixed native tree cover and reducing night-time glare near forests can aid survival and ensure continued sightings across Karnataka’s Western Ghats corridor.