Madagascan Sunset Moth

Chrysiridia rhipheus, the Madagascan Sunset Moth, is a species of day-flying moth of the family Uraniidae. It is considered one of the most impressive and appealing-looking lepidopterans. At first, the moth was thought to be from China or Bengal but was later found to be endemic to Madagascar. It is found throughout the year in most parts of the island, with peak populations between March and August, and the smallest numbers between October and December.

A wingspan of 7-9 centimeters, and occasionally up to 11 centimeters, is typical for Chrysiridia rhipheus. Moths at higher elevations, between 900 and 1,080 meters, have an average wingspan of 7 cm, while those from lower elevations, at 600 meters (2,000 feet), have an average wingspan of 9 cm. Sunset moths, like many other uraniine moths, have remarkable similarities to swallowtail butterflies, notably in their tails and vibrant wings, and are sometimes mistaken for butterflies. The black, iridescent red, blue, and green markings of the sunset moth are striking. The edges of the wings have a white scale border, which is broader on the hindwings. The six tails of the moth are frequently lost or injured throughout its lifespan. Pattern variations are common, and the moth is often partly asymmetrical, one of the factors causing this is temperature shock during the pupal stage.