Smaller Parasa Moth
Common NameSmaller Parasa Moth
Scientific NameParasa chloris
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsgreen, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, cherry, maple, birch, willow, apple
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are distinctive slug-like caterpillars, often green with stinging spines, which pupate in a hard, oval cocoon typically attached to a twig or leaf.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the bright green furry thorax and the large, sharply defined green triangular patch on each reddish-brown forewing, making it quite unique among moths.
Description
This small, stout-bodied moth features a vibrant green, furry thorax and a prominent, triangular green patch on each forewing, sharply bordered by reddish-brown. The remaining parts of the forewings are reddish-brown.
