The Io Moth is a medium-sized silkmoth with cryptic yellow-brown forewings that conceal brilliant hindwings bearing large, staring eyespots of blue, black, and yellow — flashed suddenly at predators. Males are bright yellow with reddish-brown bars while females are more reddish-brown. The gregarious caterpillar bears sharp, stinging green spines that cause intense skin irritation on contact.
Habitat
Deciduous and mixed forests, parks, and gardens
Diet
Larvae: many tree species including maple, cherry, and corn. Adults: do not feed
How common
Common
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