Rosy Maple Moth

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

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.

Risks & Benefits

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.

Identified on: 4/11/2026