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Acherontia atropos with skull background, African death's-head hawkmoth, large skull pattern moth, taxidermy moth, wall decor, nature art

Acherontia antropos, commonly known as the death's hawkmoth, is a large moth species found in various regions, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Known for its unique appearance and ability to emit a loud squeaking sound, it has captivated human curiosity for centuries. It is known for its unique markings and a distinctive skull-like pattern on its thorax, which has earned it its macabre name.

Appearance: This species is quite large for a moth, with a wingspan ranging from 10 to 13 centimetres. It is easily recognizable by the prominent, skull-like pattern on its thorax, which gives it its common name. The forewings are typically brown or greyish, with wavy markings, while the hindwings are orange or yellow with black bands.
Habitat: Death's Hawkmoths can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, gardens, and agricultural areas. They are known to be highly adaptable and can often be encountered in urban environments.
Nocturnal Behavior: Like many moths, Acherontia atropos is primarily nocturnal and is active during the night. They are attracted to artificial lights, making them visible in urban areas where they may be seen fluttering around streetlights.
Feeding Habits: The adult moths feed on nectar from a variety of flowering plants. The caterpillars are known to feed on the leaves of a range of plants, particularly those in the potato (Solanaceae) family.
Aversive Hissing Sound: One of the most intriguing features of this species is its ability to produce a loud, hissing sound when threatened. This is achieved by expelling air from its respiratory openings, called spiracles. The sound, along with the skull-like pattern, adds to the moth's mystique.
Cultural Significance: The Death's-head Hawkmoth has garnered attention in popular culture and folklore due to its distinctive appearance. It has been featured in literature, art, and films, often associated with mystery and the supernatural.
Life Cycle: Like all moths and butterflies, Acherontia atropos undergoes complete metamorphosis, which includes egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult stages.

Quality: A1

Sex: Male.

Frame: 6” x 6” Inches, PVC and glass.

We firmly support the sustainable tropical butterfly collections as long as they take care of the conservation of the rainforest where they fly and the development of responsible conscious trading.
This allows us to support local ranching farms with ethically sourced material and help at the same time collectors and enthusiasts to contribute to understanding and treasuring those species.

Please take into consideration that the specimen that you will receive may slightly differ in size, shape or colour from the picture shown as you are purchasing a natural product.

Please note: In our selection of white frames, the inner box frame—the part that creates the depth of the shadow box—is currently only available in black, as white versions are not available at this time. The outer frame remains white.

This detail has not been an issue in over six years of offering this product, but we wanted to proactively inform you to ensure full transparency.

This applies only to deep frame items. Shadow boxes, if selected, come with a white inner frame.