Luna Moth Caterpillar

Deciduous forests, woodlands, and suburban areas with suitable host trees.

Leaves of various deciduous trees, including sweetgum, hickory, sumac, walnut, pecan, and birch.

As a caterpillar, it is primarily engaged in feeding and growing. It will eventually pupate, either in the soil or in a cocoon, to transform into an adult moth. The adult moths are nocturnal.

No risks to humans. As caterpillars, they can defoliate host trees but rarely cause significant damage to mature trees. As adults, they play a minor role in pollination as they visit flowers for nectar, though their primary role is reproduction.