Unicorn caterpillar moth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Unicorn caterpillar moth |
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| Larva | |
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| Adult | |
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Notodontidae
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| Genus: |
Schizura
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| Species: |
S. unicornis
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| Binomial name | |
| Schizura unicornis (J. E. Smith, 1797)
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The Schizura unicornis, also known as the unicorn caterpillar moth, is a type of moth. It belongs to a family of moths called Notodontidae. This moth was first officially described by a scientist named James Edward Smith in 1797. You can find the unicorn caterpillar moth all over North America, except for the very cold arctic parts in the far north.
Contents
About the Unicorn Caterpillar Moth
What Does the Moth Look Like?
The unicorn caterpillar moth is a medium-sized moth. Its wingspan (how wide it is when its wings are spread out) is usually between 24 and 35 millimeters. That's about the length of a few paperclips!
The front wings of the moth are mostly dark grey. They often have different shades and patterns of yellowish, rose, and brown colors. The back wings are a dull white color. In male moths, the back wings might have some grey shading. Female moths have darker grey back wings.
When Do Adults Fly?
Adult unicorn caterpillar moths are active at different times of the year depending on where they live. In warmer southern areas, they can be seen flying from February to September. In cooler northern areas, they fly from May to August. These moths usually have one generation born each year.
Where Do They Live?
The unicorn caterpillar moth is found across a large part of North America. This includes most of Canada, the United States, and parts of Mexico. They prefer areas with lots of trees and shrubs, as their caterpillars need specific plants to eat.
Life Cycle of the Unicorn Caterpillar Moth
The Caterpillar Stage
The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, look quite unique. Their bodies are mostly brown. However, the second and third parts of their chest area are a bright green color. Their head is a mix of brown colors.
Unicorn caterpillars eat the leaves of many different trees and shrubs. Some of their favorite foods include:
- Alder trees
- Apple trees
- Aspen trees
- Paper birch trees
- Elm trees
- Hawthorn bushes
- Hickory trees
- Willow trees
You can find these caterpillars from May to October in the southern parts of their range. In the north, they are usually seen from June to September.
How They Survive Winter
When winter comes, the unicorn caterpillar moth stays in its caterpillar stage. It builds a special silk case called a cocoon. This cocoon is usually hidden under fallen leaves on the ground. The caterpillar stays safe and warm inside its cocoon until spring arrives. Then, it changes into a pupa, and later, an adult moth emerges.
