Trident Automeris Moth
Common NameTrident Automeris Moth
Scientific NameAutomeris tridens
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsorange, black, brown, white
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, and forest edges
Geographic RangeCentral America (e.g., Mexico, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama) and northern South America (e.g., Colombia, Ecuador, Peru)
Host PlantsQuercus, Salix, Acer, Prunus, Robinia
Flight PeriodMultiple broods throughout the year in tropical regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically spiny and pupate in a loose cocoon among leaf litter or underground.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific trident-like mark on the forewings and the distinct orange hindwings with large, multi-ringed black and white eyespots.
Description
This medium-sized moth has cryptic tan-brown forewings featuring a dark, trident-shaped mark, and vibrant orange hindwings each bearing a large, striking black and white eyespot ringed with yellow and black.
