Rosy Maple Moth

Found in temperate deciduous forests throughout eastern North America, particularly near maple trees.

Caterpillars (known as green-striped mapleworms) eat maple and oak leaves; adults do not feed at all during their short lifespan.

Nachturnal and attracted to lights. They have a short adult life cycle of about one week, dedicated entirely to mating and laying eggs. They typically remain stationary during the day high in trees or on structures.

They pose no risk to humans as they do not sting or bite. They are beneficial to the ecosystem as a food source for birds and other predators; however, in large numbers, the larvae can cause minor defoliation of host trees.