Luna moth
The luna moth is a large North American moth in the family Saturniidae, with the scientific name *Actias luna*.
The luna moth (*Actias luna*) is a large North American moth in the family Saturniidae. It is known for its pale green wings, long hindwing tails, and short-lived adult stage. The species is native to eastern North America and is commonly associated with deciduous woodlands.
Description
The luna moth is a large saturniid moth with pale green wings, a white to pale body, and long curved tails on the hindwings. Its eyespots and tail shape are part of its defensive appearance.
Life cycle
Luna moths undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar, pupa, and adult. The adult stage is brief, lasting about a week, and is focused on reproduction rather than feeding. Adults do not feed and lack a functional mouth and digestive system.
Distribution and habitat
The species is native to eastern North America and is found in and near deciduous woodlands where host plants grow. Its range extends across much of the eastern United States and into southern Canada, including parts of southeastern Canada.
Diet and behaviour
Larvae feed on leaves of several tree species, including walnut, hickory, sweet gum, persimmon, and birch. Adults are nocturnal and are known for anti-predator behaviour such as the twisting of wing tails to confuse bats.
Taxonomy and naming
The species is scientifically named *Actias luna*. The name 'luna' refers to Luna, the Roman moon goddess, which is reflected in the moth’s common name, the luna moth or American moon moth.
Key facts
- Adult luna moths do not feed and lack a functional mouth or digestive system.
- The species is nocturnal and has anti-predator adaptations like eyespots and tail twisting.
- Luna moth caterpillars feed on leaves of walnut, hickory, sweet gum, and birch.
- The luna moth is native to eastern North America, including parts of Canada.
- Adults live for about one week.
The luna moth occurs in parts of southern Canada, and sources describe its range as extending into southeastern Canada and from Montreal westward in some accounts. It is a familiar species for Canadian readers interested in native woodland insects.
Frequently asked questions
What is a luna moth?
Where do luna moths live?
What do luna moth caterpillars eat?
Do adult luna moths eat?
How long do adult luna moths live?
Are luna moths found in Canada?
References
- National Geographic Kids — https://kids.nationalgeographic.com/animals/invertebrates/facts/luna-mothSupports: Adult lifespan, lack of mouth/digestive system, larval host plants, defense against bats, North American range.
- Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/luna-mothSupports: Scientific name, eastern North American distribution, size, wing markings, larval feeding habits.
- Missouri Department of Conservation — https://mdc.mo.gov/discover-nature/field-guide/luna-mothSupports: Family Saturniidae and habitat in deciduous woodlands with host plants.
- Clemson University HGIC — https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/luna-moth/Supports: Common name, size, nocturnal behaviour, habitat, and range into southeastern Canada.
- University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture — https://www.uaex.uada.edu/environment-nature/anr-blog/posts/whats-that-bug-luna-moth.aspxSupports: Family placement, eastern North American distribution, and American moon moth name.
- Animal Diversity Web — https://animaldiversity.org/accounts/Actias_luna/Supports: Natural history and note that it is not listed as threatened by major conservation listings in the source.