Luna Moth

Actias luna

The Luna Moth (Actias luna), found in forested areas of the eastern United States and Canada, may be seen every month of the year in Florida where there are two or more broods each season. The “eyes” of this face are actually eyespots on the wings that startle predators. The eyespots which resemble moons inspire the moth’s common name. This imposing moth, one of North America’s largest, starts as a bright green caterpillar that eats leaves of hickory, walnut, sweetgum, and persimmon. Adults live only a few days.