Hyalarcta huebneri

802_2711 [Hyalarcta huebnery]

 

This is a snapshot of a seemingly “extra-terrestrial’ creature that,

considering its length (about 5cm), was moving on the ground relatively fast.

 

Having no idea what it was,

I conducted some quick research at home

which revealed that it was one of about 200 species of bagworm

existing in Central and in Southern Europe.

Yet, I had never seen one before!

Hyalarcta huebneri, as it is scientifically called, is actually a moth.

The male has wings and flies during the afternoon or early evening,

The wingless female, on the other hand, builds a protective case using any available plant materials,

like bits of leaves and twigs,

and always remains in the case with only the head and the thorax exposed.

 

Interesting creature?

For more information you might want to do your own research

and not depend on a blogger almost ignorant on the matter! 😊😊😊 

Thank you.

 

The snapshot was taken in Attica.

 

 

Caterpillar

803_6431 [caterpillar]

 

 

803_6434 [caterpillar]

 I discovered this 2.5 cm long caterpillar on the leaves of a plant on the balcony of my apartment.

I believe it’ll turn into a moth but I wonder which one. Any experts out there who could give us a hand? 

 

It was photographed in Holargos on June 29, 2020

 

 

Peribatodes ilicaria

300_6550 [Peribatodes ilicaria]

This moth landed on the balcony of my apartment rather too often lately;
so often that I eventually couldn’t’ resist grabbing the camera for a quick shot.
Enjoy the “culprit”.

Photographed at Holargos on May 01, 2018

Macroglossum stellatarum

CCC1597 [Macroglossum - Matthiola]

 I often see this day-flying moth - Macroglossum stellatarum – enjoy the nectar of Matthiola tricuspidata.
Is it a coincidence or the high quality of the nectar the moth is aware of? I wonder.
 
Photographed in Oropos on February 10, 2011

Hyles euphorbiae

DSCN3053 [Hyles euphorbiae]

This larva feeds on a plant called Euphorbia; a fact that has given the larva its name. When time comes, it will develop into a beautiful moth of the genus Hyles. [A beautiful moth I haven’t had the chance so far to take a picture of but I still hope…]. The bright colors on larva’s body send a message to predators that it’s poisonous and so it secures its safety. But probably to a point because “mistakes” always happen!

Photographed on Mt. Parnonas on October 25, 2008

Scopula luridata

DSC_4908 [Scopula luridata]

DSC_4893 [Scopula luridata]

This moth - probably attracted by the electric light sent out through the balcony door in my study at home - landed on the window pane and stayed there patiently until I had time enough to photograph her from both sides.

Wing span is about 3 cm.

I express my appreciation to my friends who identified the moth for me as: Scopula luridata.

Both photographed in Holargos on July 28, 2014

A moth (sp.?)

DDD_2117 [moth]

Dimensions: 20mm x 45mm

Photographed on Mt. Hymittos on April 20, 2013

Attacus Atlas

033 [Attacus Atlas]


According to Wikipedia “Atlas moths are considered the largest moths in the world in terms of total wing surface area [upwards of c. 400 cm² (62 sq in)]. Their wingspans are also amongst the largest, from 25–30 cm (10–12 in). Females are appreciably larger and heavier.” They are found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast Asia. This photo was taken in Penang Butterfly Farm in Malaysia.


Malaysia: 26/01/2005, photo © Tony Taglides