What is this moth doing

[jamesk]

Hi all, any idea what this moth is doing? Is it releasing pheromones?

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5168/5283095501_98a8bfc33e_o.jpg

[Commander]

It probably is. There are numerous articles on the web describing the eversible structures in the male moth's abdomens that are able to release pheromones to attract females.

I recall that Siyang had earlier photographed a pair showing the same behaviour, but alas, the picture has been removed. You can ask him for the pics via his blog on his article here - http://uforest.blogspot.com/2009/06/mating-dating-and-dead-moths.html

He must've removed the pictures from his Flickr site.

You have a nice blog. You managed to shoot all these critters out in the night at the Chestnut area? :omg: http://sgn090608.blogspot.com/2010/12/101222-chestnut-avenue-area.html

[scenar]

Wow you have quite a blog indeed.. enjoyed viewing the pics :)

[jamesk]

Thanks for the info! Siyang's post is very informative indeed.

Thanks also for visiting my blog guys. :)
Ya all shot within the same night, maybe about 3 hours there.

--
Oh, his photo is in this forum as well,
http://www.butterflycircle.com/forums/showthread.php?t=8880
those scent organs are even more fantastic looking.