Acherontia atropos, original watercolor art

The Acherontia atropos, famously known as the Death's-head Hawkmoth, is perhaps the most iconic moth in the world due to the eerie, human-like skull pattern on its thorax. Found across Europe and Africa, this large, heavy-bodied moth has been a subject of folklore and superstition for centuries, often appearing as an omen in literature and film.

Unlike most moths that sip nectar from flowers, this species is a notorious honey thief. It has a thick, reinforced proboscis that allows it to pierce honeycombs inside beehives. To get away with the heist, it produces a specific scent that mimics the pheromones of honeybees, effectively "cloaking" itself so the bees treat it as one of their own rather than an intruder.

A unique and startling fact about the Death's-head Hawkmoth is its ability to squeak. When threatened, it expels air through its pharynx to produce a sharp, audible chirp. It is one of the few moth species in the world capable of making a vocal sound, which—combined with its skull marking—is usually enough to startle any curious predator into leaving it alone.

This piece is currently exhibited as part of the ENTOMOCOSMOS, mutual project of the Museum and me as an artist.

Watercolor and ink, 100% cotton ARCHES paper.

Dimensions: 36 x 25 cm | 14.1 x 9.8 in (delivered in a tube)

Can be framed upon personal request.