The Bardy Grub or Rain Moth. (Trictena Atripalis)

This monster moth was in Jens garden. It had just crawled out of its cocoon which was buried by the Eucalyptus tree. I nearly stepped on it, the dog was very interested too! So managed to get it onto the fence, where it began to dry out and the wings unfolded. Fascinating! I put my pen beside it, to give a comparison of size. The wing span is 120mm for males and 160mm for females. A very big moth. Ok sitting on the fence as long as it doesn't fly into me!

Have now put it into a box with plenty of air holes and greenery over night so that the boys can take it to school tomorrow to show their classes. Quite a rare find as they usually dry off and fly straight away. Neighbour John said he had not seen one for thirty years.

It's called a Rain Moth or Waikerie, from the fact that the adults often emerge after rain. Think this one got tired of waiting, as although forecast, rain has yet to come. Still hot!