Description
Scientific Name: Actias luna
Actias luna, popularly known as the American moon moth, is a Nearctic moth that belongs to the subfamily Saturniinae of the family Saturniidae, also known as the enormous silk moths. The hindwings of adult luna moths have a long, tapering tail and a light or lime green body; each of the four wings has an eyespot. The forewings have a black leading edge.
A yellowish lateral (side) stripe runs below the spiracles, which are tiny holes that let air into the respiratory organs. There are also three lateral rows of reddish tubercles on each side of the larvae, and the head is brownish. The larvae are bright green caterpillars with convex (expanded outward) segments and narrow yellow bands at the hind part of each segment.
Habitat
The only species of luna moth found in North America, they are frequently seen as far north as Nova Scotia, as far south as southern Florida, as far west as Saskatchewan, and as far east as the Gulf Coast of eastern Texas. In deciduous hardwood forests, they reside.
Diet
The leaves of walnut, pecan, hickory, sweet gum, persimmon, and sumac trees are consumed by the larvae of the lunar moth. Adult huge silkworms don’t consume at all because, like other members of the family, they have reduced mouthparts. The grownups only have a week or so to live as a result.
Behavior
The Luna Moth sleeps throughout the day and is active at night, like most moths. It’s wing coloration helps it stay camouflaged to avoid being eaten. If a Luna Moth is about to be attacked it will defend itself by rearing up its head, making clicking sounds, and regurgitating a foul-tasting liquid. Luna Moths have a plan to avoid being caught by bats at night. Recent research has revealed that the long, twisting wings of bats’ rear legs scatter reflected noises, confusing their echolocation hunting technique.
As Pet
One of the most attractive and interesting caterpillars are those of the luna moth. They are also among the simplest animals to care for as a pet. A few paper towels, a few leaves from a tree they enjoy to eat, and a clean container with a tight-fitting lid are all you need.
It is a rewarding and hands-on experience for insects lovers to raise caterpillars. nsure that your pet has a healthy living environment, access to food and water, appropriate handling, and adult care. Luna moth eggs are normally laid between five and ten days of age. To ensure their nourishment and water supply, they need to replace the leaves inside of their shelter each day. Before reaching adulthood, a luna caterpillar sheds its skin for four weeks. You should pay close attention to both your pupa and an adult luna moth. If you must handle them, do so gently and properly wash your hands both before and after entering their shelter.
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