MANILA — Large brown moths have recently been seen fluttering around streets and residential areas in Metro Manila, sparking curiosity — and some concern — among residents.
According to research associate Edriel Lee, these are Tropical Swallowtail Moths, scientifically known as Lyssa zampa. “It’s a fairly large moth with a wingspan reaching up to six inches,” Lee said. “It’s dark brown with a white band that sweeps diagonally across its wings.”
Native to the Philippines and Southeast Asia, the moths’ sudden visibility in urban areas may be linked to environmental changes and their search for food sources. Lee explained that the moths might be migrating or accidentally trapped in cities while looking for host plants.
A Singapore-based study in 2023 also reported similar mass appearances after dry spells, which make plants more attractive to caterpillars.
The moths are drawn to artificial lights at night but pose no harm to people, animals, or buildings. “They are docile, not poisonous, and don’t bite or spread diseases,” Lee clarified. “Their caterpillars also don’t feed on food crops.”
Typically appearing between May and July, these moths are harmless and an important part of the ecosystem. Lee encouraged residents to document sightings through platforms like iNaturalist or by sharing them on social media to help scientists track distribution patterns.
“Insects like these play vital roles in nature,” Lee said. “They are essential to our environment and shouldn’t always be seen as pests.”
