Duskwing Moth

The Duskwing Moth was genetically bred and magically modified by the great Archmagus Salbatice to ensure mass pollination of the Black Poppy fields in the Kulevya Dukedom.  The wizard created a cross between the Death’s-Head Hawkmoth and Battle Hawkmoth.  This cross resulted in giving the moth a resistance to the deleterious effects of the poppy and enables fast flights and quick maneuverability, combined with great strength and endurance that was needed to pollinate the expansive fields.

Basic Information

Dietary Needs and Habits

As a caterpillar the moth feeds upon the leaves of potato, tomato, jasmine, nightshade, and grapes.  As an adult moth, it only feeds on the nectar of the Black Poppy that the moth was created to pollinate.

Additional Information

Domestication

The field masters of the Kulevya Black Poppy fields have seen to it that this moth is kept protected and comfortable so as to stay close to the poppy fields, pollinating them and reproducing nearby.

Uses, Products & Exploitation

The Duskwing Moth was created for the sole task of pollinating the Black Poppy fields of the Kulevya Dukedom.  An interesting side effect of either it's creation process or feeding habits, has led to the use of its wing scales being powdered and used as an anesthesia and in more concentrated forms being used as a sleeping powder.  Hushed rumors have also suggested that by swallowing a whole moth, it can cure any poison that the person has recently ingested.

Geographic Origin and Distribution

These rare moths are most usually found in the land of their creation, the Kulevya Dukedom.  Although a few have managed to migrate outwards from there into the surrounding farmlands and fields.

Genetic Ancestors: 

• Death’s-Head Hawkmoth
• Battle Hawkmoth

Scientific Name

Crepusculum Alatus Blatta

Lifespan

One year as a caterpillar and one additional year as a moth.

Conservation Status

This species is highly protected by the Kulevya Dukedom and anyone found in possession of it, whether alive or dead, egg, caterpillar, or moth, is subject to high fines and lengthy prison terms. Anyone found to have intentionally killed one of the moths is shackled to the Noon Wall in the center of the city while awaiting sentencing. The punishment for killing one of the moths is usually banishment, enslavement, or sentenced to be a pit fighter.

Body Tint, Colouring and Marking

The Duskwing Moth caterpillar's body is a light brown color with black striped markings.  The moth itself has a central body color and pattern the same as it's caterpillar form but has wings of various shades of brown and grey.  Along the entire edge of the wings are several small, regularly spaced, white circles.  At the center of the bottom portion of the wing are large distinct black "Z" markings.

Discovered By:

• Archmagus Salbatice