Rare moon moth spotted at Kaeng Krachan National Park
Park officials to survey species' population and habitat range
A rarely seen species of moth was discovered by a park officer at a popular campsite in a national park in Phetchaburi, drawing interest from conservationists.
The moth was discovered near the campsite area of Panoen Thung in Kaeng Krachan National Park, Phetchaburi province. Park officer Nattaphon Ritnoi reported the sighting, which was confirmed by park chief Atthapong Pao-on, who said the species is seldom seen in the wild.
Known as the Moon Moth or Long-tailed Scythe-eyed Moth, this spectacular insect belongs to the Saturniidae family and has been identified under several closely related scientific names, including Argema maenas, Actias ignescens, Tropaea rosenbergii, and Sonthonnaxia recta.
Its range spans several countries, including India, China, Myanmar, Thailand, western Malaysia, and Indonesia’s Sunda Islands, such as Java and Sulawesi.
The male moth is particularly striking with lemon-yellow forewings adorned with pale brown to reddish bands and a coppery crescent-shaped eyespot. Its furry yellow body and feathery antennae give it a distinctly ethereal appearance. The hindwings carry the moth’s most iconic feature: long, streamer-like tails edged with fine hairs that flutter like silk ribbons in flight.
Female moon moths are typically paler in shade, with larger, golden-orange kidney-shaped eyespots and softer hues on the wing underside, often in tones of grey and pinkish brown.
Due to ongoing environmental degradation and habitat loss, sightings of the Moon Moth in Kaeng Krachan, which forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are increasingly rare. This makes the recent discovery especially significant for entomologists and conservationists.
Park officials have announced plans to conduct a population survey to better understand the species’ current numbers and conservation needs in the region, reported Bangkok Post.
Kaeng Krachan National Park, home to dense forests, rich biodiversity, and the famous misty viewpoints of Panoen Thung, is set to reopen to visitors on November 1. Nature lovers are encouraged to explore the park’s natural beauty, and may even be lucky enough to spot this elusive, otherworldly moth gliding silently through the canopy.
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