Io Moth
Common NameIo Moth
Scientific NameAutomeris io
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsyellow, red, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, meadows, and open fields
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas and the Great Plains
Host Plantswillow, oak, maple, birch, hickory, sassafras, redbud, corn
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods in southern regions)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters, hatching into gregarious, spiny green caterpillars that feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. Larvae pupate in a papery cocoon, often at the base of host plants, before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the large, prominent black and white eyespots on the hindwings, which are revealed when the moth is disturbed. Males typically have bright yellow forewings, while females have reddish-brown forewings.
Description
This moth features bright yellow forewings with scattered dark markings and a fuzzy yellow body. Its hindwings are a striking combination of red and yellow, each bearing a prominent black and white eyespot resembling an owl's eye.
