Luna Moth

insects · moths · giant silk moths · nocturnal

Named after the moon. The luna moth gets its name because of the pale green color and the large eyespots on its wings that look like moons. These eyespots might help protect the moth by confusing predators.

Massive silky wings. Luna moths belong to the giant silk moth family, which are among the largest moths in the world. Their wings are covered in soft scales that give them a silky appearance and can measure up to 4.5 inches across.

Active at night. Luna moths are nocturnal, meaning they come out after dark to fly and find mates. During the day, they rest with their wings folded over their bodies like a tent.

Short adult life. Adult luna moths live for only about one week, which is a very short time compared to other animals. During this brief life, they focus on finding a mate and laying eggs.

Caterpillar food favorites. Before becoming moths, luna moth caterpillars eat the leaves of trees like birch, hickory, and walnut. These green caterpillars can grow quite large before they spin their cocoons.