Regal Moth and the Hickory Horned Devil

Photo from June 1 at dawn along S.C. coast

A naturalist can identify with the old saying that the early bird gets the worm. Nature enthusiasts recognize that sometimes the best time of day to view critters is the early morning hours. A recent walk to a local beach just after dawn to look for loggerhead sea turtles revealed a nocturnal Regal Moth that was just settling in for a daytime slumber. Despite a stable population range in the Mid-Atlantic states, this chance encounter sent me searching for information about my first ever sighting of this large orange moth with white spots.

            

Drawing on a lifetime of experience, what I did know is that this was one of the largest moths or butterflies I had ever encountered.  It was not surprising to learn that the Regal Moth is said to be the largest moth by weight north of Mexico. Their scientific name is Citheronia regalis and they are members of the Saturnidae Family, which also includes the Luna moth and Imperial moth. Like most large moths, their lifespan is not much more than seven days, making this sighting even more improbable.

Hickory Horned Devil Caterpillar
Photo credit - Pinterest

            

The Regal moth is found throughout the deciduous forests of the eastern U.S. and its bright markings make it distinct in the realm of insects. What was surprising to learn is how the caterpillar stage of this adult moth is known as the Hickory Horned Devil for its fierce looking orange horns. The thick and beefy caterpillar can be as large as a small hot dog, and is a handful when picked up for observation. Both the caterpillar and adult phase of the Regal moth are harmless and all the coloration and horns are nature’s way of safeguarding them from hungry birds and other predators.

To view the entire feature article click on Colletonian.

To view past Field Notes and photos click July 2018 - February 2018 -  December 2017 - September 2017 - January 2017- December 2016 - June 2016 - February 2016- December 2015 - October 2015 - September 2015 - August 2015 - July 2015 - June 2015 - February 2105 - October 2014 -  September 2014 - August 2014 - June 2014 - March 2012 - February 2012 - October 2011 - September 2011