Tulip-tree Beauty

Deciduous forests, woodlands, and suburban areas where host trees are present, primarily in the eastern North America.

Adults feed on flower nectar. Larvae (caterpillars) feed on the leaves of tulip trees, sassafras, and magnolias.

This moth is nocturnal and highly camouflaged to look like tree bark. It rests with its wings spread flat against surfaces to blend in. The larvae are 'inchworms' that use their cryptic coloring to hide from predators.

No risk to humans; they are neither venomous nor aggressive. They benefit the ecosystem as pollinators and as a food source for birds and bats.