The luna moth is famous for having no functional mouthparts as an adult.
Adult luna moths do not feed because their mouthparts are reduced and nonfunctional. They live briefly, relying on energy stored during the caterpillar stage to find mates and reproduce. The caterpillars feed on leaves from several tree species, including walnut, hickory, sweet gum, and birch, before spinning a papery cocoon.
The luna moth is one of North America’s largest and most recognizable moths. Its pale green wings, long hindwing tails, and eyespots make it easy to identify. The tails may help confuse or deflect attacking bats, although their exact protective importance can vary.
A common mistake is to assume that all large moths cannot eat as adults. This is true for many giant silk moths, including the luna moth, but not for all moth families. Many adult moths drink nectar, sap, or other liquids.