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Black Witch Moth

Ascalapha odorata

Photo by glbnoah109
Published on Project Noah
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17.2202, -87.592

Field Notes

Description:

Moth approximately 4 to 5 inches across, with broad dark black-brown pointed wings with purple highlights on island 43 miles off the coast of Belize.
The coloration is that of a male.

Habitat:

Wooded areas, including urban areas,

Notes:

In Mexico and Costa Rica, it is known as "Mariposa de la muerte". According to folklore, it is is considered a harbinger of death. On a lighter note, in some parts of Mexico, people joke that if one flies over someone's head, the person will lose his hair.

Species ID Suggestions

Black witch

Ascalapha odorata

Comments (1)

Thanks, I have updated the information to include the interesting folklore.

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