Thursday Things: Luna Moth!

This week, we're checking off number 42, find a rare plant or animal and take its picture, for 101 Things in 202 Thursdays.  Technically, the Luna Moth (Actias luna) is not a rare species, but it is very difficult to catch sight of one, since they a) live in dense forests, b) only fly at night, and c) live for a mere seven days once they've emerged from their cocoons.

I first saw a Luna Moth last year.  It was perched on the wall of our porch and I had no idea what it was.  That sucker was huge.  HUGE.  (After doing a quick search on the internet, I discovered that huge is the Luna Moth's normal size.)  It was also gorgeous -- light green wings with black/blue and yellow eyespots, fuzzy yellow antennae, and pink legs.  The girls and I oohed and ahhed at it for the entire two days it lived on our porch.

Yesterday, we were thrilled to discover one by our front door.

That white thing by its antennae is a separate moth, as is that dark thing underneath the Luna Moth's hindwings.  Apparently, the three are buddies...or they're just plain unaware of each other.

We're thrilled to have another Luna Moth to admire.  If you ever get a chance to see one in person, I highly recommend that you spend long minutes staring at it.

In the meantime, if you want a better look than my limited photography skills can provide, then check out this link.