Wood Leopard Moth

Description:

Zeuzera pyrina, the Wood Leopard Moth, is a member of the family Cossidae. Prior to my sighting of this moth, I had never seen a moth in the family. This moth was introduced in the 1800's and was first reported in North America at Hoboken, New Jersey in 1882. It takes 2-3 years for the whole life cycle to complete itself, so this moth is likely 2-3 years old. The first two photos are of the moth as it was warming itself up to fly away. This moth was most likely one of the favorites for the kids at the East Brunswick Butterfly Park Moth Night. They loved putting their fingers gently on the wings as they were beating. It was an amazing experience to see the kids say "Wow!!" They were enthralled as it crawled along their arms and hands.

Habitat:

Found at the East Brunswick Butterfly Park Moth Night.

Notes:

Lifer!