The luna moth, Actias luna, is native to Arkansas. Their eggs hatch about a week after they are laid. The caterpillars eat several species of leaves including those of hickories, persimmons, and birches.
After about a month, the 3 inch long caterpillar is ready to form a cocoon. Once the beautiful lime-green, long-tailed moths emerge, they will live only 7 to 10 days. They are unable to eat during this time and exist to find a mate and reproduce. Why would we think about luna moths during November?
Because luna moths are overwintering in their cocoons right now. They are in a state similar to hibernation. And they are on the ground, in the fallen leaves. Please leave your leaves on the ground, so that you don’t kill luna moths and many other species.