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20-NOV-2016 Dick Keely

Giant Comet Moth (Argema mittrei) caterpillar

Andasibe, Madagascar

Also known as Madagascan Moon Moth, it is native to the rain forests of Madagascar.
The male has a wingspan of 20 cm and a tail span of 15 cm, making it one of the world's largest silk moths.
The female lays from 120-170 eggs, and after hatching the larvae feed on Eugenia and Weinmannia leaves for ~2 months before pupating.
The cocoon has numerous holes to keep the pupa from drowning in the daily rains of its natural habitat.
The adult moth cannot feed and only lives for 4 to 5 days.
Although endangered in the wild due to habitat loss, the Comet moth is being successfully bred in captivity.
Reference: Wikipedia

Nikon D800E ,AF-S NIKKOR 28-300mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR
1/320s f/11.0 at 300.0mm iso2200 full exif

other sizes: small medium original auto