Sunday, June 19, 2011

Io Moth (Automeris io) - Male


A very common moth throughout eastern North America and north to southern Canada.  They range west to southern Arizona and south to Central America, at least as far as Costa Rica.  Larvae feed on a wide variety of host plants -- over 100 recorded plant genera in North America -- , including such diverse plants as azaleas, blackberry, clover, cotton, current, hackberry, hibiscus, mesquite, palms, rear, redbud, roses and willows.  (University of Florida "Featured Creature")

Prominent eye spots on hind wings are distinctive and found on both males and females.  Males are usually yellow while females are a rusty red color.

(Previous post includes photos of female, eggs and caterpillars.) 


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7 comments:

Lana Gramlich said...

These are so beautiful. I've never seen one in "real" life, but maybe someday!

Lisa at Greenbow said...

You certainly nailed this photo wind or no wind.

TexWisGirl said...

beautiful! i don't think i've ever seen one.

KaHolly said...

Would you look at that! Marvelous! I've never had the pleasure of meeting one of these beauties! ~karen

Kay Baughman said...

How lovely--and strange! I have seen only a few before--in Missouri, I think. Thank you for posting this and the previous post's photos. I'm learning as well as enjoying your posts.
Kay

RedPat said...

That's fabulous! I've never seen one.

Rebecca said...

Beautiful moth! I've never seen this one before. Thanks for including the link to the additional photos.