Beautiful Wood-Nymph

Natural Habitat

Woodlands, forest edges, suburban gardens, and areas with grapevines or Virginia creeper within Eastern North America.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (caterpillars) feed on the leaves of grapevines, Virginia creeper, hops, and buttonbush. Adults may feed on flower nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal moths that rest during the day with their wings folded over their back in a tent-like shape. They evolved a specific camouflage to mimic bird droppings (specifically bird poop) to deter predators.

Risks & Benefits

Benefits: Serving as a pollinator and a food source for other animals. Risks: Caterpillars can occasionally be minor garden pests if they congregate in large numbers on grapevines or decorative creeper vines, but they are generally harmless to humans.

Identified on: 2/13/2026