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Mini Aetole Micromoth with Hind Legs Sticking Up

by Janet Brien
What you see sticking up there are this tiny moth's hind legs! They raise the legs up upon landing and is normal for these species. This little guy was a little larger than a grain of rice!! It walked around flashing its beautiful, iridescent wings, and I think it was probably meant to attract mates. Studying other flowers, I saw many of these tiny moths! Isn't it amazing and beautiful?! :)

I learned that this is a kind of "micromoth" in the Heliodinidae group, known as "Sun moths". Micromoths aren't an official classification but are a grouping of the many extremely small moths around the world. They share many of the same characteristics, and also often behave differently than "normal" moths. For instance, many species are diurnal (active during the day). If you would like to know more about these fascinating, beautiful moths, Wiki has a page here: Wikipedia: Microlepidoptera
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5 comments

Schussentäler said:

great details
12 years ago ( translate )

tiabunna said:

This is a great macro in its own right. But what an intriguing creature! I suspect the "antlers" are raised rear legs.
12 years ago

Don Sutherland said:

Great capture.
12 years ago ( translate )

Jim Boynton said:

How do you see something so small? Your eyesight must be fantastic. Those legs are a wonder to behold.
12 years ago

micritter said:

Wonderful photo of both the moth and the tiny flowers. The PiP shows the lovely irridescent colors of the moth wings with the sun shining on them. Many thanks for giving me the link to this post.
7 years ago