The creatures, which are commonly found in South East Asia and India, have changed from caterpillar to butterfly in time for the summer period. Sam Humberstone, of Conwy Butterfly Jungle, Bodlondeb, Bangor Road said the reaction from visitors had been excellent.

"The first thing people say when they walk through the door is 'wow'. The atlas moth is beautiful and is the size of a small plate, so people are stunned when they see them. It is unusual for them to form this early, but we are over the moon."

Three females and five males have already formed. The wings of the moths have triangular transparent windows and the tips are hooked and resemble a snake's head. It takes the name Atlas due to the pattern of its glorious wings, which are similar to the design of a map.

The centre is open from 10am till 5.30pm six days a week. The jungle closes on Tuesday's. For further information access the website at www.conwy-butterfly.co.uk.