Massive Moth Bigger Than Human Hand Leaves Insect Enthusiasts And Netizens Baffled

A woman recently found a massive moth the size of a human hand in Australia, leaving insect enthusiasts baffled.

On Tuesday, the woman, identified as Pam Taylor, spotted the giant moth perched upon a tree while she was walking with her family along a woodland area in Brisbane, Times Now News reported. She immediately posted photos of the bug on a group called "Amateur Entomology Australia" and asked if it was a moth.

The photos went viral, with insect enthusiasts storming the post’s comments section to talk about the moth’s origin. They said the bug was a Giant Wood Moth, which is usually found in the coastal areas of Australia and has a wingspan of up to 10 inches. The bug is considered the heaviest moth in the world and grows up to 6 inches in length.

"It belongs in the family Cossidae. They are known as Witchetty Grubs, Goat Moths, Carpenter Moths, Wood Moths, Borers," one person commented.

"Some of the cossidae family can get to 150mm in size. Goat moths can be around 90mm," another wrote.

Some people also recalled their experiences of spotting similar insects.

"Reminds me of a school camp in Wagga were there was a plague of Bogon moths! Not that big, it they were big and they were everywhere!!!" one user said.

"I found one of these beautiful moths in my front yard at Morningside years ago. They are so beautiful and so massive. What an awesome find. Thank you for sharing," wrote another user.

"I remember seeing a moth as big as my hand in Central Victoria as a child, laying large eggs 2 or 3mm diameter, so impressive," said another person.

The following morning, Taylor gave an update on the moth. She said she went to check on the insect and found it with another moth.

"I went to check on him this morning to see if he survived the storm last night.... he definitely kept himself busy!... Update! The largest moth is the female not the male!!!" she wrote, along with a few photos of the two insects.