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hercules moth
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hercules moth

Also known as: Coscinoscera hercules
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Quick Summary

The Hercules moth, Coscinocera hercules, is a species of saturniid moth found in the tropical forests of Australia. It is notable for being one of the largest insects in the world by wing area, with a wingspan of about 28 cm (11 inches). This impressive size can sometimes lead to it being mistaken for a bird.1

The eastern Hercules beetle, Dynastes tityus, is a different insect, belonging to the beetle family Scarabaeidae. It is characterized by horn-like structures on the male, making it conspicuous. While related to rhinoceros and elephant beetles, it is not a moth.23

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. eastern Hercules beetle
  2. saturniid moth
  3. Hercules beetle

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