Expand your bug-pinning skills and collection with the Entomology Expansion Pack: Death's-Head Hawkmoth. With this expansion pack developed by museum professionals, you will receive:
- A Death's-head Hawkmoth
- 6 wing strips
-
#000 entomology pins
- #1 Entomology pins
- Specimen fact sheets for each insect included in the kit
Looking for the main Entomology STEM Pinning kit? The Science Museum of Minnesota's own science kit, the Entomology STEM Pinning Kit teaches you the full process of pinning insects.
Death's-head Hawkmoth (Archerontia atropos)
Famous for its inclusion in pop culture and art, the Death’s-head Hawkmoth has a pattern on its thorax that resembles a human skull. These large sphinx moths, from the family Sphingidae, are found throughout Africa, Asia, and Europe. They are nocturnal and known for their large size, brown and yellow coloring, and their sharp chirp when irritated. Research suggests that the “skull” may be used for deterring predators. When viewing the moth upside down with its wings folded, light-colored spots on the wings give the impression of eyes, and the “skull” resembles the nose of a larger, potentially more intimidating, animal.
Sustainability, responsible husbandry, and conservation are core considerations as we develop our entomology products and workshop experiences. We source insects from carefully vetted vendors with those priorities in mind and in alignment with the Science Museum of Minnesota's ethics policy. Learn more here.
