The scorpion-Moth is a critically endangered species so scientists crave for samples of it. So it is now quite rare. They are closely related to the Rosy Maple Moth, but they differ in size. Scorpion-Moths are roughly the size of a large butterfly.

Habitat

The Scorpion-Moth lives in the marshlands (although they usually build their homes further away from the water). They burrow into the ground using their tail and their front arms to create their dwelling place. Most scorpion-Moths live with their family, so their cavities must be very spacious. It will most likely become a grave site if a bigger animal intrudes.

Behaviour

The creatures don’t fly- they glide along the wind currents. When the winter months hit, They block off the entrance to their homes, and begin to hibernate. They don’t usually interact with any other animal apart from themselves. Amazingly, They have been recorded to fly up to the height of Mount everest! Isn’t that surprising? Male Scorpion-Moths fight over property, it always ends with one dying. They use the spores surrounding their neck to inject a venomous pain into a predator that feels a lot similar to a stinging-nettle sting.

Appearance:

The Moth has tufts of miniscule spores encircling its neck(that are easy to pull out). They maintain an arched, segmented tail that has a curved scorpion stinger at the very end. Surprisingly, they have a set of ebony eyes positioned on their stomach. Lastly, they have painted eyes splattered on their wings.

Diet, Predators and Prey:

Despite having gigantic incisors, Scorpion-Moths are actually herbivores. They use their teeth to intimidate predators. Scorpion-Moths have grown to eat meadow buttercup, and marsh marigold, they also like ragged robin for a snack. Sadly, the common predators of the Moths are: the powerfully jawed alligators that adore the taste of the scorpion-Moth; Bushy tailed raccoons that ambush the winged creature while foraging for food; and the sly, winding snake that share venom with its prey. The most surprising thing about the Scorpion-moth is that the prey rarely evade capture from its hunters.