Zodiac Moth
Photo: C & D Frith
Australia's Wet Tropics
Rainforest Life
Zodiac Moth: (Alcides zodiaca) - This is a large and attractive moth and in many ways resembles a swallow tail butterfly.
- It is a diurnal moth (meaning that it is active during the day).
- It sips nectar from flowers with its long proboscis.
- It can be recognised as a moth because it rests with its wings outspread, unlike butterflies which rest with wings together most of the time.
- The larvae of this moth feed mainly on the vine Omphalea queenslandiae and pupate in transparent cocoons between dead leaves on the ground or in crevices.
- Can be seen feeding on Golden Penda Flowers in May and June.
- They have been sighted in large numbers, in June and July, flying in a north south direction at the cross junction of the Russell River and Mulgrave River, just south of the township of Deeral.
( Sighting information courtesy of: Gary Grant Phone (07) 4054 1193 ) Additional Information: Damon Ramsey  A day-flying moth
Has a spectacular orange and black colouring. It is sometimes seen in places like Marrdja boardwalk. It usually lands 'head down' (left). Script: Courtesy of Damon Ramsey BSc.(Zool) Biologist Guide | 
