Moths Native to Illinois

Sphinx Moths

• Sphinx, or Sphingidae, moths are a moth species that are part of the superfamily Sphingoidea. Often, these moths are referred to as hawk or hummingbird moths. Sphinx moths normally grow to have a 5 inch or wider wingspan. These moths are the most active at dusk and eat like hummingbirds, hovering over a flower and sipping its nectar. The Manduca sexta is a part of this species and is native to Illinois. Its wings are brown and gray and similar to a tree bark pattern.

Saturniinae Moths

• Saturniinae, Giant Silkworm, moths are a part of the Bombycoidea family of moths. Their sizes range from medium to quite large, with up to a 15 cm wingspan. Caterpillars of the Saturniiae moth feed on the leaves of shrubs and trees, which can cause much damage. The Actias luna is a part of this family and has a pale green color with long tails. The Actias luna is native to the state of Illinois and emerges during the spring months.

Noctuilae Moths

• Noctuidae moths, also known as Miller and Owlet moths, are part of the largest species of moths, the Noctuoidea family. Their sizes range from small to large, with most being approximately 2 cm to 4 cm wide in the wings. Most Noctuidae moths are nocturnal and feed on dead leaves and fungi. The Acronicta Americana, or the American Dagger moth, is a part of this family and is native to Illinois. It is the largest dagger moth in the region.

Arctiidae Moths

• Arctiidae moths are also known as Lichen and Tiger moths. Another member of the Noctuoidea family, Arctiidae moths are small to medium and are often red, yellow, white or orange with black markings on their wings. Most feed on lichens and woody plants. Pyrrharctia Isabella moths are a light orange color with white or yellow on their hind wings. Female Pyrrharctia isabella moths lay eggs on sunflowers, cabbage and corn. Adults are seen flying around native Illinois from April to August.