A Moth in the Garden

My mom passed me a caterpillar some weeks ago. 
It did grow big consuming most of the Madagascar Periwinkle leaves. And for a caterpillar of this species it did look interesting with two bold blue eyes looking marks on the body.
Taking care of this caterpillar was quite a challenge as getting the right container for it.

Earlier it was placed in a glass jar and somehow the moisture seemed to create an osmosis effect on the caterpillar body and it was getting bloated and sickly. (and stop eating)
 Immediately, it was removed and somehow it had slowly retain back its beautiful looking colour and start eating more leaves.

My wife was troubled to hear a funny shuttering sound early in the morning. It buzzed as she was preparing breakfast and was wondering what made the sound. 
(Yeah.. its feels like a little freaky when you don't get to identify the source of the sound) 
Then she found that it came from a cardboard box where this moth is all ready and set to go.

And so the Moth finally emerged today after these few weeks in the pupa form. It did took awhile and many many days of anticipation from both of my boys.

 My elderest one was a bit sceptical about handling this moth - perhaps the odd looking insect doesn't resemble the common butterfly appearance. He did mention though out of concern for his younger brother to have a look before setting this moth free. (before leaving to school early in the morning - before his brother woke up)

But the youngest one is far more adventurous. Full of anticipation and excitement that he got hold of his slippers quickly regardless whether they of the same type (I noticed it after taking the pictures)

I was amazed to find this moth quite tame and was easily to handle. It rest calmly upon my palm and my youngest one wanted to share the same experience.

 

I was worried that he might got panic and brush off the fragile insect. Or might get overly excited and pluck off the exotic looking wings. Rest assured he handled the moth with tender care & with all amazement studied this war patterned moth.

This moth is known as Oleander Sphinx Moth or Oleander Hawk-Moth (Daphis nerrii)

I guess it is something to remember about Halloween Day.
Not that we celebrate it but to those who do.. 
Have a nice trick or treat.