Types of large moths in kentucky. You can identify the cecropia caterpillar by its long length and orange yellow and blue nodules tubercles. Consider contributing an image at the email address showcased at the bottom of this page. Female atlas moths weigh around 28 grams while males are 25 grams. Although not as large as the horned devil this giant caterpillar can grow up to between 4 and 45 10 11 cm.
These are moths are highly distinguishable because of their multicolored wings however one feature that clearly sets them apart from other moth species is that they dont have a mouth. Click on the pictures above to learn more about specific types of adult butterflies and moths. It is very seldom seen. Another type of very large caterpillar is the cecropia moth caterpillar with its fat green body and scary appearance.
There are many different kinds of butterflies and moths in kentucky. The adult is small and stout with dark brown wings. Click on the x found on each entry below to hide specific bugs from this pages listing. The moth of this interesting species is a pretty chocolate brown with tan and green markings.
After reading about the really large moths hearing about a moth that has close to a five inch wing span brings some perspective. Moth insects found in the state of kentucky. Or visit the caterpillars section to identify butterfly and moth caterpillars. Several species of large moth occur in north america and occasionally travel to the screens of doors and windows under a porch light.
There are a total of 440 kentucky butterflies and moths found in the insect identification database. A very wide variety of plants including maple dogwood pecan and crepe myrtle. Since its so large the atlas moth also weighs a lot more than most other moths. Moths like their butterfly counterparts are born from eggs laid near food sources and initially exist as caterpillars.
The wing spread is about four inches. The colorful abdomen shows shades of blue and orange. Entries are listed below in alphabetical order. Return to results page for kentucky insects.
Large moths are not as commonly seen as their butterfly cousins largely due in part to their nocturnal nature. One key distinguishing feature of moths when compared to butterflies is their vertical positioning of their wings most species. They reach adulthood through the process of metamorphosis as do butterflies.