Regal Moth
Common NameRegal Moth
Scientific NameCitheronia regalis
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)125
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, reddish-brown, yellow
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern United States, parts of southeastern Canada
Host Plantshickory, pecan, sweetgum, persimmon, sumac, walnut
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as 'hickory horned devils', are very large, green caterpillars with prominent orange-tipped black spines. They pupate underground in a chamber, emerging as adults the following summer.
Identification TipsLook for its impressive size, the distinctive orange and yellow striped body, and the reddish-brown forewings adorned with large yellow spots. The caterpillar is unmistakable with its large, horned appearance.
Description
A large, robust moth with a bright orange body striped with yellow. Its forewings are reddish-brown with large, irregular yellow spots, while the hindwings are predominantly orange with similar yellow spotting.
