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Regal Moth

Regal Moth

Citheronia regalis

A species of Citheronia, Also known as Hickory Horned Devils, Hickory horned devil

The regal Moth (Citheronia regalis) is a reddish moth that uses its two-toned color in order to disguise itself as bird droppings. It also evolves from a caterpillar with a particularly interesting name: the hickory-horned devil. They do not spend much time in their moth state, as they have small mouths that prevent them from eating.

General Info About Regal Moth
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Attributes of Regal Moth
Colors
Gray
White
Orange
Habitat
wood
Adult Food Sources
Adults do not feed.
Larva Food Source
Sweetgum (liquidambar styraciflua), sassafras (sassafras albidum), persimmon (diospyros virginiana), buttonbush (cephalanthus occidentalis), hickory (carya species)
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Regal Moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Vestigial
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Species Status of Regal Moth
It is considered a common species in the American Deep South, becoming rarer and more sporadic northward. Historically recorded throughout New England, the species suffered a decline in the Atlantic Northeast during the mid-20th century. Excluding sparse contemporary records from New York, It achieves range stability in the mid Atlantic states and southern Appalachia, the edge of the Great Plains states and south to East Texas.
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Life Cycle of Regal Moth
Egg The egg stage begins when the female regal Moth deposits eggs on a host plant. These eggs are typically small, rounded, and may have distinct color patterns. This stage is developmental, leading to the emergence of larvae.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of regal Moth is a caterpillar, primarily focused on growth and feeding. It changes dramatically in size and must molt several times as it outgrows its exoskeleton. Coloration can vary with instars.
Pupal The caterpillar of regal Moth enters the pupal stage, forming a chrysalis. During this time, it undergoes a transformative metamorphosis. The pupa may exhibit cryptic coloration to blend into surroundings, reducing predation.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult regal Moth displays wings with vibrant patterns for mating displays and deterrence. The size is maximized, and the insect is now sexually mature, focusing on reproduction and dispersal.
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Adult Size of Regal Moth
Wingspan 12 - 15 cm
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Predators of Regal Moth Larvae
Birds, small mammals, reptiles, invertebrate predators
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Predators of Adult Regal Moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Regal Moth
Regal Moth larvae exhibit a unique defense mechanism by emitting a series of clicks when threatened, which is thought to deter predators.
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Scientific Classification of Regal Moth
Tips for Finding Regal Moth
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Youth Habitat of Regal Moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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Adult Habitat of Regal Moth
Forests and Woodlands, Urban and Suburban Areas
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When is the Best Time to Observe Regal Moth
To find regal Moth, it's best to search during its active periods. For caterpillars, this may be during the day when they are feeding. Adult regal Moth are typically active at dusk or during the night when they are most likely to feed or seek mates.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Regal Moth
Weather conditions should be considered when locating regal Moth. Larvae may be easier to find during warm, sunny days which promote feeding and growth. Adult regal Moth are more likely to be active in warm weather with little wind, as extreme temperatures or precipitation can limit their activities.
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How and Where Can You Find Regal Moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Regal Moth eggs are often laid on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, carefully examine the leaves of known food sources for small clusters or rows of eggs.
Larva Regal Moth caterpillars can be found on or near their host plants, where they feed. Search for signs of feeding damage on leaves, and then inspect the plant thoroughly for caterpillars.
Pupal Regal Moth pupae may be buried shallowly in the soil or concealed in leaf litter. Look for pupae by gently sifting through the top layer of soil or leaf debris near the base of host plants.
Adult Regal Moth adults are attracted to light, so setting up a light trap at night can be an effective way to find them. They are also known to visit fermenting fruit baits or sap flows on trees, which can serve as lures.
Are Regal Moth harmful?
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Common Questions People Also Ask
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