23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Wildlife
Atlas Moth Caterpillar Close-Up
This close-up photograph captures the extraordinary detail of an Attacus atlas caterpillar — the larval stage of the world’s largest moth. During this stage, the caterpillar devotes all its energy to feeding and storing nutrients, preparing for the astonishing transformation into a giant moth whose wings resemble snake heads — a masterpiece of natural mimicry.
Photo Detail
| Date Taken: | 05.2025 |
| Date Uploaded: | 10.2025 |
| Photo Location: | Malaysia |
| Camera: | ILCE-7RM4 |
| Copyright: | © Irina Petrova Adamatzky |