Swallowtail Moth - Ourapteryx sambucaria

Rich · #1 (**permalink**) 18-07-2006, 10:51 PM

I went to close the window this evening and found this butterfly/moth on the net curtain. It is about the size of a red admiral. I've never seen anything like it, and after an hour Googling I'm none the wiser.

Tiggrx · #2 (**permalink**) 19-07-2006, 05:55 AM

This is a Swallowtail Moth

Rich · #3 (**permalink**) 19-07-2006, 10:30 AM

Ourapteryx sambucaria - Thanks very much Tiggrx. It can be so frustrating when one sees a creature and can't identify it.

Unusual shape for a moth. I thought it was a butterfly until I looked at the photos I'd taken then had doubts.

Stewy · #4 (**permalink**) 19-07-2006, 11:20 AM

What sort of size are they?

nightshade · #5 (**permalink**) 19-07-2006, 12:55 PM

This is the sort of butterfly that makes children believe in fairies!

Gill Catton · #6 (**permalink**) 19-07-2006, 01:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by nightshade

This is the sort of butterfly that makes children believe in fairies!

Absolutely, this sort of moth is preferred by fairies for shorter flights.... It might be worth checking in the fruit bowl or under the sofa for faires

beenicko · #7 (**permalink**) 09-07-2009, 02:37 PM

I too have been searching for details of this moth. One sttled on our front door last week and another was flying round the garden. As you can see on the photo this one is identical to yours but it settled with it's wings flat. It was there for four nights. Beautiful creature.
Bri.
OOPS, I don't know how to add the photo. I'll sort it out and be back later.