Happy National Moth Week! In honor of this celebratory week, let’s learn more about luna moths. These interesting creatures begin as caterpillars, but only live for a week after leaving their cocoon.
Luna moths can be spotted across Texas. Before they become moths, they are caterpillars with a huge appetite, snacking on leaves of walnut, hickory, sweet gum, and paper birch trees. After a month of snacking, they build a cocoon to live inside for three weeks. Once they emerge, they don’t have a mouth or digestive system because of their short life span.
Luna moths usually have bright green wings that can stretch four and a half inches. If a bat tries to capture these moths, watch out! They spin the tails of their wingtips in a circle, distracting the bat and helping luna moths make a quick escape.
Do you have a favorite type of moth or an insect you want me to feature for Urban Almanac? Email me.
