World's largest moth makes early appearance this year

Pupae of the world's largest moth, Atlas Moth, seem to be making an early appearance on the island this year.

A tree by Singapore's Sungai River has recently become home to about 80 Atlas Moth caterpillars, which is common in Southeast Asia, especially Singapore.

They are usually spotted between November and January, but they have appeared earlier than usual this year. The rain that suddenly came during the hot months of July and August might have led to the early appearance of the caterpillars.

The caterpillars may look cute, but it is best to leave them alone. If it's a small one, then you feel a lot of itch. If it's a big one, then you will feel a lot of pain. It's really like a sting.

Atlas Moth, got it named because of the map like patterns on its wings, when fully grown, it can have a wingspan of some 30 centimetres. Atlas Moth is nocturnal, with a lifespan of around two weeks.