Leopard Moths (Great Leopard Moth) are large, nocturnal moths famous for their striking black & white spotted wings, resembling a snow leopard. Known for their fuzzy "woolly bear" caterpillars with red bands, they spend most of their lives underground or in trees, feeding on many plants before emerging as adults, which have short lifespans and don't eat, relying on fat reserves for mating and egg-laying. They're found across North America and use foul-smelling fluids and bright colors to deter predators.
Adult Moth Facts
Appearance: White, translucent wings with blue-black spots; fluffy white body; dark blue/orange abdomen with black spots on the underside.
Size: Large, with a wingspan of 2.25 to 3.5 inches (5.7-8.9 cm).
Behavior: Nocturnal, attracted to lights; live only 6-10 days to mate.
Defense: Release a foul-tasting yellow fluid when threatened.
Caterpillar Facts (Giant Woolly Bear)
Appearance: Fuzzy black with bright red bands between segments, revealing when curled.
Size: Up to 3 inches long.
Diet: Eat many plants, including sunflowers, willows, cherries, and hostas.
Overwintering: Spend winters as larvae, often under bark or in leaf litter.
Defense: Curl into a ball, showing red bands to deter predators; bristles don't usually irritate skin.
Life Cycle & Habitat
Habitat: Woodlands, fields, orchards, gardens across Eastern North America.
Duration: Takes 2-3 years to develop, spending most of that time as a
caterpillar.
Broods: One to two generations per year, depending on location.
