Species · GBIF taxon 1866085
Io Moth
Automeris ioAlso known as Peacock Moth, Io Silkmoth
Io moths display one of the most dramatic defensive reactions in the insect world, flashing large, black-and-blue hindwing eyespots to startle potential predators when disturbed. While the brightly colored males fly actively at night searching for mates, females emit pheromones from stationary perches to guide them in. The larvae are voracious feeders on a wide variety of trees and shrubs, growing into bright green caterpillars covered in venomous, stinging spines.
NocturnalStinging CaterpillarVibrant
- diet
- Deciduous leaves as larvae; adults do not feed
- family
- Saturniidae
- threats
- Light pollution, pesticide use, and habitat loss
- life Span
- 7 to 14 days as adults
NE
Caterpillars possess venomous stinging spines; avoid touching them and observe only from a safe distance.
Branching spines on the caterpillar inject a venom that causes immediate, intense burning, redness, and localized swelling.
Never touch the caterpillars; if stung, apply adhesive tape to the area to pull out the venomous spines.- Attract with Light: Use a UV blacklight against a white sheet at night to safely observe adults.
- Look for Larvae: Search the undersides of oak, cherry, or willow leaves during mid-to-late summer.
- Keep Distance: Never handle the green, spiny caterpillars to prevent painful stings.