A family of moths comprising about 1200 species, widespread throughout the world, בעיקר in tropical areas. Most members of the family are large moths whose wingspan can reach up to 300 mm. Their enormous size and impressive colors have earned them the term Emperor moths. Many species have eye-like patterns on the wings. The adults do not feed at all and have atrophied mouthparts. The male has thick, feathery antennae and is able to detect a female from a great distance. In many species there is sexual dimorphism, and the male differs from the female in shape or color.
The eggs are smooth and in many cases flattened. The larvae are impressive in their size, colors, and shape. In many species the larvae have colorful bumps on the body with hairs or bristles on them. The larva, usually, pupates inside a cocoon made of silk.
In Israel the number of species is small.