Large moths of kentucky. One key distinguishing feature of moths when compared to butterflies is their vertical positioning of their wings most species. The larvae caterpillars are also green. Some of the moths in this family are also sometimes called hawk moths or hummingbird moths and a few species are called hornworm moths but it is acceptable to call any member of the family a sphinx moth. Typically it has a wingspan of roughly 114 mm 45 in but can exceed 178 mm 70 in making it one of the larger moths in north america.
They reach adulthood through the process of metamorphosis as do butterflies. Moths like their butterfly counterparts are born from eggs laid near food sources and initially exist as caterpillars. And can be territorial. They can be quite small or as large as your hand.
The luna moth actias luna is a nearctic moth in the family saturniidae subfamily saturniinae a group commonly known as giant silk mothsit has lime green colored wings and a white body. If everyone who uses this resource gives a small amount we could cover our ongoing costs develop new features and upgrade the system. By ric bessin extension entomologist university of kentucky college of agriculture the royal or regal moths and the giant silk moths belong to the family saturniidae. My continue reading bettys moth list.
We need your help. There are many different kinds of butterflies and moths in kentucky. Insects are typically drawn to a given area by available food supply weather environmental factors pollution etc water supply mating patterns etc. Or visit the caterpillars section to identify butterfly and moth caterpillars.
Please note that insects do not adhere to man drawn borders on a map and as such they may be found beyond their listed reach showcased on our website. We depend on donations to keep butterflies and moths of north america online and freely available. Index of all insects found in kentucky. Consider contributing an image at the email address showcased at the bottom of this page.
Butterflies and moths of kentucky showcase listing of butterflies and moths found in the state of kentucky. Insects are typically drawn to areas by available food supply weather. Moth insects found in the state of kentucky. Saturniid moths download pdf.
Please understand that that insects do not adhere to man drawn borders on a map as such they may be found beyond the general reach as showcased on our website. Some resemble bark or lichen while others are quite colorful and remind me of works of art. Most members of this faintly are large moths the cecropia being the largest moth in north america.