Luna Moth

insects · nocturnal · giant silk moths

Named after the moon. Luna moths get their name because of the large eye-like spots on their wings that look like moons. These markings help protect them by startling predators.

Glowing pale green. Luna moths are covered in soft, pale green fur and have beautiful pale green wings. They are some of the largest moths in North America, with wingspans reaching up to 4.5 inches.

Super short lifespan. Adult luna moths only live for about one week. They don't eat or drink during their adult life, they only focus on finding a mate.

Caterpillar's feast. Before becoming a moth, luna moth caterpillars are bright green and munching machines that eat leaves from trees like birch, willow, and walnut. A single caterpillar can grow to be 3 inches long.

Nighttime flyers. Luna moths are nocturnal, meaning they only fly at night when it's dark. You might spot their shadowy shapes near outdoor lights.