Back to gallery

7746 – Automeris io – Io Moth, male

Very docile, once they settled down. Tended to drop to the ground if disturbed (perhaps a defense mechanism against bats?), but happy to perch on a finger. They expose the hindwings, which look like an owl, to startle potential predators. Picked this one up and placed on this leaf for a nice photo op. Wingspan 8 cm.

6,138 views
40 faves
19 comments
Uploaded on July 19, 2010
Taken on June 25, 2010