12 August 2024 | Dr. Jovy C. Vilela-Bactad, LPT, MAEd-Bio
Common name: Greater Death's Head Hawk Moth (caterpillar stage)
Scientific name: Acherontia lachesis
Figure 1. Greater Death Head Hawk Moth (caterpillar stage)
Spotted at the stairs from the AJHS PUSH office to the CMST building is this amazing moth in its caterpillar stage. The prominent yellow spots on its black body are evident along its sides. This is commonly found in Asia which are typically found in gardens and primarily feed on plants.
After metamorphosis, this species will emerge as a unique Greater Death’s Head Hawk Moth, notable for its skull-like pattern on its thorax. When threatened, this species would emit a distinctive clicking sound as a defense mechanism. According to folklore, the loud squeaking sound emitted when disturbed and irritated would mean death. Hence, its common name is derived.
Figure 2. Greater Death Head Hawk Moth (adult stage)
References
[1] YesChat AI. (2024). Animal Identifier. YesChat AI. https://www.yeschat.ai/gpts-9t557ouwDLt-Animal-Identifier
[2] Ayun, Brine (2024). [Photograph], Ateneo de Manila Junior High School, Quezon City, Philippines.
[3] No author. (2018). Death head hawk moth [Photograph]. Animal Spot. https://www.animalspot.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/Death-Head-Hawk-Moth.jpg