The Beautiful Luna Moth
The luna moth is one of the the prettiest moths that we have around here. Its oversized pale green wings, false eyespots, and feathery antennae really are a sight to see. One of the defining characteristics of the luna moth is the elongated, finger-like projections on the back wings, and they are not just there for looks. Apparently, the luna moth will twirl those projections in a helicopter-like motion in order to confuse bats that would feed on them.
Thick, Feathery Antennae
Due to the thickness of the antennae, I believe this is a male moth. They use receptors on those big ole antennae to detect pheromones released by reproductive-ready females. I found this one just before dusk on a sweetgum tree, which happens to be a favorite food for luna moth caterpillars. I imagine he was waiting around until midnight or so, because that is when luna moths usually mate. Once mated, the female will lay their eggs on the leaves of the host tree. About a week later, the eggs will hatch, and the larvae will begin eating. Once they’re ready to form a chrysalis, they will drop down into the leaf litter under the tree and form their papery cocoons. Adults do not eat, so they will not last long after the eggs are laid.
Saying Goodbye
Thanks for reading today’s article! If you enjoyed it, maybe you would like to check out some of my other recent content:
Take a look at the small stagshorn fungus.
Learn about the silver spotted skipper and its creep looking caterpillar.
Read my rant about the confusion between venomous and poisonous organisms that I entered into @suesa’s Science Challenge #2
Take a walking tour of Hardy, AR
Or, read my newfound use for Steemit in my classroom.