This is one of our largest moths, with a wingspan of close to 5 inches. Its wings are a soft lime green with a purplish front edge to the forewings and swallow-like hindwing tails. Both sets of wings have “eyes”. The legs are furry and purple as well. The large feathery antennae are a light brown. All coloration depends on the freshness of this moth and local lighting conditions, as can be seen from the color differences in the images shown. Its caterpillars feed mainly on Hickory and Walnut trees; the adult moth does not feed at all.
Luna Moths have two generations a year and are seen in April and June. They are attracted to light, but not often seen. This strikingly beautiful moth is considered an endangered species.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Babs Padelford