Western luna moth (SciiFii)

The western luna moth (Actias luna californianus), also known as the California luna moth and the Pacific luna moth, is a subspecies of luna moth (Actias luna) in the family Saturniidae, subfamily Saturniinae, a group commonly known as giant silk moths, that originally did not exist, but has since been created by SciiFii and introduced throughout the swamps, forests, open woodlands, grasslands, shrublands, scrublands, and deserts across the western United States, Mexico, and Canada to help boost biodiversity. Like its eastern relatives, the western luna moth has lime-green colored wings and a white body. The larvae (caterpillars) are also green. Typically, it has a wingspan of roughly 114 mm (4.5 in), but can exceed 178 mm (7.0 in), making it one of the larger moths in North America. Across Canada, it has one generation per year, with the winged adults appearing in late May or early June, whereas farther south it will have two or even three generations per year, the first appearance as early as March in southern parts of the United States. As defense mechanisms, larvae emit clicks as a warning and also regurgitate intestinal contents, confirmed as having a deterrent effect on a variety of predators. The elongated tails of the hindwings are thought to confuse the echolocation detection used by predatory bats. Unlike its eastern relatives, it is highly adaptable and easily tolerates the presence of the invasive gypsy moths. The conservation status of the western luna moth is Least Concern due to successful conservation efforts, the western luna moth's wide range and its tolerance to many of the human activities.
Category:Animals
Category:Species
Category:SciiFii