Description
Scientific Name: Dryocampa rubicunda
The Rosy Maple Moth, a species of tiny North American moths, is sometimes known as the “great silk moths.” The pink-and-yellow caterpillars of these creatures are known for their charming and vibrant appearances, and they also have a unique identity under the term “greenstriped mapleworm.” The male has a wingspan length of 1.25 to 1.75 inches, while the female has a wingspan length of 1.5 to 2 inches. The tiny yet dense orange-yellow fur, hair, and coat cover the entire body (head, thorax, and abdomen). The eyes are proportionately huge and black, and the legs are dark pink. Soft pink wings with a dull white to yellowish-cream splotch running across them make up both the primary and secondary wings.
Habitat
There are rosy maple moths all around Nova Scotia, from Quebec to Ontario and Minnesota. Additionally, they can be found in the southern states of Florida, the Gulf Coast, Dade County, and eastern Texas. They frequently inhabit temperate deciduous forests, close-by suburbs, and urban settings.
Diet
The adult rosy maple moths do not feed at all, but the larvae eat the leaves of their host trees.
Behavior
With the exception of mating, these moths live alone and are essentially nocturnal creatures. Adults go through a stage of torpidity in the morning and afternoon, and then they emerge for mating in the late evening. Typically, the adult moths fly during the first portion of the night.
As Pet
There are a few considerations if you plan to keep a pink maple moth to make as a pet. They only have a short lifespan, therefore you must give them fresh food and water every day. Second, because they are drawn to light, you must store them in a dim area while not in use. Finally, handle them carefully because they are delicate beings who are prone to injury.
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