Puerto Rico hosts approximately 1,000 Lepidoptera species, making the island a remarkable destination for moth diversity. From the mountainous rainforests of El Yunque to coastal lowlands, you’ll encounter moths ranging from delicate sphinx species to stinging caterpillar varieties.
Whether you’re an entomologist, nature photographer, or curious observer, understanding these 25 common species will enhance your appreciation of Puerto Rico’s nocturnal pollinators and their ecological roles.
1. Polyphemus Moth
The Polyphemus moth (Antheraea polyphemus) ranks among Puerto Rico’s most spectacular silk moths, displaying prominent eyespots on its hindwings that serve as defense mechanisms against predators. These large moths reach wingspans of 4 to 6 inches, with brown and tan coloring accented by pink and purple hues along the wing margins.
You’ll rarely see adult Polyphemus moths feeding, as they lack functional mouthparts and survive solely on energy reserves from their caterpillar stage. The larvae feed on various trees including oak, willow, and maple species. During daylight hours, these moths rest with wings spread flat, revealing the distinctive eyespots that resemble the Cyclops from Greek mythology.
Key Insight: The Polyphemus moth’s brief adult lifespan lasts only one to two weeks, during which reproduction becomes the sole priority.
2. Io Moth
The Io moth (Automeris io) presents striking sexual dimorphism, with males displaying bright yellow forewings and females showing reddish-brown coloration. Both sexes feature large eyespots on their hindwings that flash suddenly when the moth is disturbed, startling potential predators.
Watch for these moths near outdoor lights during warm evenings throughout the year in Puerto Rico. The caterpillars are covered in venomous spines that deliver a painful sting upon contact, making them one of the island’s defense-equipped species. Larvae typically feed on a variety of host plants including corn, clover, and various ornamental species.
Adult Io moths measure 2 to 3 inches across and remain active from early evening through the night. The species thrives in diverse habitats across Puerto Rico, from agricultural areas to suburban gardens.
3. Tersa Sphinx Moth
The Tersa sphinx moth (Xylophanes tersa) exhibits remarkable aerodynamic capabilities, hovering at flowers while feeding on nectar through an extended proboscis. This medium-sized sphinx moth displays olive-brown coloring with distinctive tan markings along the forewings.
You’ll recognize this species by its streamlined body shape and rapid, hummingbird-like flight patterns. The Tersa sphinx feeds on plants in the Rubiaceae family, particularly pentas and star clusters commonly found in Puerto Rican gardens. Adults are most active during twilight hours but may also fly during daylight.
The moth’s wingspan typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.5 inches. Its caterpillar stage features prominent eye-like markings and a distinctive horn at the rear, characteristic of sphinx moth larvae throughout the Caribbean region.
4. White-Lined Sphinx Moth
The white-lined sphinx moth (Hyles lineata) stands out with bold white stripes running along its brown forewings and bright pink hindwings visible during flight. This powerful flier can migrate long distances and appears year-round in Puerto Rico’s varied ecosystems.
These moths are among the most frequently observed sphinx species, often mistaken for small hummingbirds as they hover at flowers feeding on nectar. The larvae, known as hornworms, feed on a wide variety of plants including evening primrose, grape, and various garden vegetables.
Pro Tip: Look for white-lined sphinx moths visiting trumpet-shaped flowers at dusk, particularly petunias, honeysuckle, and four o’clocks in residential gardens.
Adults reach wingspans of 2.5 to 3.5 inches and demonstrate impressive flight speeds. The species serves as an important pollinator for night-blooming plants across Puerto Rico’s agricultural and natural landscapes.
5. Ello Sphinx Moth
The Ello sphinx moth (Erinnyis ello) presents elegant coloring with gray-brown wings marked by subtle darker bands and patterns. This tropical sphinx moth commonly visits gardens and agricultural areas throughout Puerto Rico, where its larvae feed primarily on plants in the spurge family.
You’ll find this species particularly abundant in coastal and lowland regions. The caterpillars display variable coloring, ranging from green to brown, with a prominent horn at the rear typical of sphinx moth larvae. Adults measure approximately 3 to 4 inches across when fully spread.
The Ello sphinx demonstrates strong, direct flight patterns and feeds on nectar from various flowering plants during evening hours. Its presence in Puerto Rico remains consistent throughout the year, with population peaks following rainy periods that promote host plant growth.
6. Pandora Sphinx Moth
The Pandora sphinx moth (Eumorpha pandorus) showcases beautiful olive-green and pink coloring that makes it one of Puerto Rico’s most visually appealing sphinx species. The forewings display distinctive bands of green and pink, while the body remains thick and aerodynamic.
This species favors grape and Virginia creeper as larval host plants, making vineyards and areas with climbing vines ideal habitats. The caterpillars go through dramatic color changes during development, transitioning from green with eyespots to brown as they prepare for pupation.
Adults exhibit wingspans ranging from 3 to 4.5 inches and fly with the characteristic hovering behavior of sphinx moths. You’ll most likely encounter Pandora sphinx moths near outdoor lighting in suburban and rural areas during warm months.
7. Tomato Hornworm Moth
The tomato hornworm moth (Manduca quinquemaculata), also called the five-spotted hawk moth, presents gray-brown coloring with five distinctive orange-yellow spots along each side of the abdomen. This robust sphinx moth reaches wingspans of 4 to 5 inches, making it one of Puerto Rico’s larger night-flying species.
Gardeners know this moth primarily through its destructive caterpillar stage, which feeds voraciously on tomato plants, peppers, and other members of the nightshade family. The green larvae can grow up to 4 inches long and feature a distinctive black horn at the rear.
Common Mistake: Many people confuse tomato hornworms with tobacco hornworms, but you can distinguish them by the horn color—tomato hornworms have black horns while tobacco hornworms display red ones.
Adults emerge from underground pupae during warm months and feed on nectar from various flowers using their long proboscis. The species maintains populations year-round in Puerto Rico’s subtropical climate, with multiple generations possible annually.
8. Tobacco Hornworm Moth
The tobacco hornworm moth (Manduca sexta) closely resembles its tomato-feeding relative but displays six orange-yellow spots along the abdomen rather than five. This powerful flier demonstrates remarkable hovering abilities and feeds on nectar from deep-throated flowers.
The caterpillar stage causes significant agricultural concern in Puerto Rico’s tobacco-growing regions, though the crop’s decline has shifted the pest’s focus to other nightshade family plants. Larvae reach impressive sizes, sometimes exceeding 4 inches in length, with a characteristic red horn at the posterior end.
You’ll observe adults most frequently during twilight hours when they visit moonflowers, petunias, and other evening-blooming species. The moth’s wingspan measures 4 to 5 inches, and its strong flight muscles allow for sustained hovering while feeding.
The species completes its life cycle from egg to adult in approximately 30 to 50 days under favorable conditions, allowing multiple generations throughout Puerto Rico’s growing season.
9. Oleander Hawk Moth
The oleander hawk moth (Daphnis nerii) displays stunning green and pink coloring that ranks it among the most beautiful moths in Puerto Rico. The forewings show intricate patterns of green, pink, and white, while the hindwings feature bold pink patches that flash during flight.
This species, as its name suggests, feeds primarily on oleander plants during the caterpillar stage, though larvae also accept periwinkle and other members of the Apocynaceae family. Adult moths demonstrate powerful, swift flight and measure 3 to 4.5 inches across.
You’ll find oleander hawk moths most commonly in coastal areas and suburban landscapes where ornamental oleander grows abundantly. The species occurs throughout the year in Puerto Rico, with adults attracted to lights during warm evenings. The caterpillars display remarkable coloring variations, from green with white spots to brown forms.
10. Death’s-Head Hawk Moth
The death’s-head hawk moth (Acherontia species) earns its dramatic name from the distinctive skull-like pattern on its thorax. This large, robust moth reaches wingspans of 4 to 5 inches and produces an audible squeaking sound when disturbed—a rare trait among moths.
The species exhibits unusual behavior by entering beehives to feed on honey, protected somewhat by a waxy coating that reduces bee attacks. Adult moths also feed on tree sap and overripe fruit in addition to nectar. The caterpillars grow impressively large, feeding on plants in the nightshade family including potato and tobacco.
Important Note: While the skull pattern and squeaking sound may seem ominous, death’s-head hawk moths pose no danger to humans and serve important ecological roles as pollinators.
In Puerto Rico, you’ll most likely encounter this species in agricultural areas and gardens with abundant host plants. The moths fly during late evening and night hours, occasionally appearing at lights.
11. Black Witch Moth
The black witch moth (Ascalapha odorata) ranks as one of Puerto Rico’s largest moths, with females occasionally reaching wingspans of 7 inches. This dark brown to black moth displays intricate wavy patterns across its wings and a distinctive eyespot on each forewing.
Cultural significance surrounds this species throughout the Caribbean, with various folk beliefs associating it with omens. In reality, black witch moths are harmless nocturnal insects that feed on overripe fruit and nectar. The species migrates seasonally, with populations increasing during certain times of year.
You’ll recognize black witch moths by their large size, dark coloring, and erratic, bat-like flight patterns. They frequently appear at lights and may enter buildings, where they rest during daylight hours with wings spread flat. The caterpillars feed on various leguminous plants including mesquite and acacia species common in drier Puerto Rican habitats.
12. Giant Sphinx Moth
The giant sphinx moth (Cocytius antaeus) truly lives up to its name, displaying wingspans that can exceed 6 inches. This impressive species features gray-brown coloring with subtle darker markings and a thick, aerodynamic body built for powerful flight.
The larvae feed primarily on plants in the custard apple family, including soursop and sweetsop cultivated throughout Puerto Rico. Caterpillars grow remarkably large, sometimes reaching 6 inches in length, with a prominent horn characteristic of sphinx moth species.
Adults demonstrate strong, direct flight and feed on nectar from various night-blooming flowers. You’ll most likely observe giant sphinx moths near outdoor lighting in rural and suburban areas during warm, humid evenings. The species maintains year-round populations in Puerto Rico’s tropical climate, though adults may be more abundant following rainy periods.
13. Gaudy Sphinx Moth
The gaudy sphinx moth (Eumorpha labruscae) earns its common name through vibrant pink, olive, and white coloring that creates striking visual patterns. The forewings display bands of olive-green and pink, while the hindwings show predominantly pink coloration visible during flight.
This medium to large sphinx moth measures 3 to 4 inches across and favors grape and Virginia creeper as caterpillar host plants. You’ll find the species in areas with climbing vines, particularly in gardens and forest edges where wild grapes grow.
The larvae display remarkable camouflage, with green bodies featuring diagonal white stripes and eyespots that deter predators. As they prepare for pupation, caterpillars may change to brown coloring. Adults fly during evening hours, hovering at flowers to feed on nectar through their extended proboscis.
14. Mournful Sphinx Moth
The mournful sphinx moth (Enyo lugubris) presents more subdued coloring than many sphinx species, with brown and tan forewings marked by darker wavy lines. Despite its somber name, this species remains common throughout Puerto Rico’s diverse habitats.
The moth measures approximately 2 to 3 inches across and demonstrates the typical hovering flight behavior of sphinx moths. Larvae feed on plants in the grape family, making vineyards and areas with wild vines suitable habitats. The caterpillars display variable coloring from green to brown with subtle markings.
Key Insight: The mournful sphinx moth’s understated appearance allows it to blend effectively with tree bark during daylight rest periods, providing excellent camouflage from predators.
You’ll encounter adults at dusk and during early evening hours as they visit flowers for nectar. The species maintains populations year-round in Puerto Rico, with multiple generations possible in the island’s warm climate.
15. Fig Sphinx Moth
The fig sphinx moth (Pachylia ficus) shows distinctive coloring with tan to brown forewings marked by darker bands and a robust, streamlined body. As the common name suggests, larvae feed primarily on fig trees, both cultivated and wild species found throughout Puerto Rico.
This medium-sized sphinx moth reaches wingspans of 3 to 4 inches and demonstrates strong flight capabilities. The caterpillars display green coloring with diagonal markings and the characteristic horn at the rear typical of sphinx moth larvae.
Adults emerge during evening hours to feed on nectar from various flowering plants. You’ll most likely observe fig sphinx moths in areas where fig trees grow, including orchards, residential yards, and forested regions with native fig species. The moths rest during daylight on tree trunks or foliage, relying on camouflage for protection.
16. Puss Moth
The puss moth (Megalopyge opercularis), more commonly known as the southern flannel moth in Puerto Rico, appears deceptively harmless with its fluffy, teddy bear-like appearance. Adults display tan to golden-brown coloring with a furry body that gives the species its common name.
The real concern comes from the caterpillar stage, which ranks among Puerto Rico’s most venomous insects. Larvae are covered in hair-like setae that conceal toxic spines capable of delivering an intensely painful sting. Contact causes immediate burning pain, followed by swelling, redness, and potentially systemic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Important Note: If you encounter a puss moth caterpillar, do not touch it under any circumstances. Remove affected larvae from areas frequented by children or pets using tools, never bare hands.
You’ll find puss moths in various habitats including gardens, parks, and forests. The larvae feed on numerous tree and shrub species. Adult moths measure approximately 1 to 1.5 inches across and remain active during warmer months, though they’re less frequently noticed than their notorious caterpillars.
17. Saddleback Moth
The saddleback moth (Acharia stimulea) caterpillar features one of Puerto Rico’s most distinctive markings—a bright green “saddle” bordered by white edges against a brown body. While adults appear relatively plain with dark brown coloring, the larval stage commands attention both for its appearance and its defensive capabilities.
Saddleback caterpillars possess venomous spines on multiple body projections that deliver painful stings upon contact. The toxins cause immediate burning sensations, inflammation, and sometimes nausea in affected individuals. Despite their small size of about 1 inch, these caterpillars pack a powerful defensive punch.
You’ll encounter saddleback caterpillars on various plants including palms, corn, and numerous ornamental species. Adults emerge during warm months, measuring approximately 1 to 1.5 inches across. The moths are attracted to lights but remain less conspicuous than their memorable larvae.
18. Stinging Rose Moth
The stinging rose moth (Parasa indetermina) produces caterpillars armed with urticating hairs that cause skin irritation and painful reactions. The larvae display variable coloring, often featuring red, yellow, and white patterns with numerous projections bearing stinging hairs.
Adult moths appear relatively plain with tan to brown forewings marked by subtle patterns. The wingspan measures approximately 1 to 1.5 inches. Despite the “rose” in their common name, the caterpillars feed on a wide variety of plants including oaks, maples, dogwoods, and various garden species found in Puerto Rico.
Common Mistake: People often underestimate small, colorful caterpillars, but the bright colors of stinging rose moth larvae serve as warning signals—approach with caution or avoid contact entirely.
You’ll find this species in gardens, parks, and forested areas throughout Puerto Rico. The moths fly during summer and early fall months, with adults appearing at lights during evening hours.
19. Spiny Oak Slug Moth
The spiny oak slug moth (Euclea delphinii) caterpillar features a distinctive appearance with bright green coloring and numerous prominent spines arranged in rows along the body. These spines contain venom that causes painful stings, skin irritation, and localized swelling.
Adult moths display brown forewings with green patches and measure approximately 0.75 to 1 inch across. Despite their small size, the species remains notable for its defensive caterpillar stage. The larvae feed on various hardwood trees and shrubs, though they’re less restricted to oaks than the common name suggests.
In Puerto Rico, you’ll encounter spiny oak slug caterpillars on ornamental plants, fruit trees, and native hardwoods. The species produces one to two generations annually, with adults emerging during warm months. Moths remain active during evening hours and may appear at outdoor lighting.
20. Crowned Slug Moth
The crowned slug moth (Isa textula) produces caterpillars with a distinctive rounded body shape and bright coloring that includes yellow, orange, and brown patterns. Multiple pairs of stinging spines project from the body, creating a “crowned” appearance that gives the species its common name.
These spines deliver painful stings similar to other slug moth species, causing immediate burning sensations and skin reactions. Larvae measure less than 1 inch but possess effective defensive capabilities. They feed on various trees and shrubs including oaks, cherries, and other hardwood species.
Adult crowned slug moths appear plain by comparison, with brown wings spanning approximately 0.75 to 1 inch. You’ll find the species in wooded areas, parks, and residential landscapes throughout Puerto Rico. The moths fly during summer months, with adults attracted to lights during warm evenings.
21. Melonworm Moth
The melonworm moth (Diaphania hyalinata) presents pearly white wings with dark borders, creating an elegant appearance. This species causes significant concern for Puerto Rican farmers, as the larvae feed voraciously on melons, squash, cucumbers, and other cucurbit crops.
Adult moths measure approximately 1 to 1.5 inches across with distinctive long legs and delicate wing structure. The caterpillars start as small green larvae and grow to about 1 inch in length, causing damage by feeding on foliage, flowers, and developing fruits.
You’ll observe melonworm moths most commonly in agricultural areas and home gardens where cucurbit plants grow. The species completes multiple generations annually in Puerto Rico’s warm climate, making it a persistent pest requiring management. Adults are active during daylight and evening hours, frequently visiting flowers for nectar.
22. Pickleworm Moth
The pickleworm moth (Diaphania nitidalis) closely resembles the melonworm moth with pearly wings bordered by brown or purple-brown bands. The two species frequently occur together in cucurbit crops, though pickleworm larvae show preference for bore into fruits and flower buds rather than feeding primarily on foliage.
Caterpillars display pale yellow-green coloring and reach approximately 0.75 inches in length. Their habit of tunneling into cucumbers, squash, and melons causes significant damage and makes control challenging. The larvae pupate in folded leaves attached with silk.
Pro Tip: Monitor cucurbit flowers and young fruits closely during growing seasons, as early detection of pickleworm damage allows for more effective management before extensive tunneling occurs.
Adult moths span approximately 1 inch and remain active during daylight hours, distinguishing them from many nocturnal moth species. In Puerto Rico’s tropical climate, multiple overlapping generations occur throughout the year in areas where host plants are available.
23. Cabbage Looper Moth
The cabbage looper moth (Trichoplusia ni) displays mottled brown and gray forewings with a distinctive silver marking shaped like a figure-eight or two circles near the center. This small to medium moth measures approximately 1 to 1.5 inches across.
The species earns its “looper” name from the caterpillar’s distinctive movement pattern, arching its body into loops as it crawls. Larvae feed on cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and numerous other crops, making them significant agricultural pests throughout Puerto Rico. The green caterpillars feature white stripes along the sides and reach about 1.5 inches in length.
You’ll find cabbage looper moths in gardens, farms, and anywhere suitable host plants grow. Adults are most active during evening hours and readily come to lights. The species completes rapid life cycles, with multiple generations possible year-round in Puerto Rico’s warm climate.
24. Fall Armyworm Moth
The fall armyworm moth (Spodoptera frugiperda) presents mottled gray-brown coloring with subtle patterns on the forewings and lighter hindwings. Adult moths measure approximately 1.5 inches across and demonstrate strong flight capabilities, allowing them to migrate considerable distances.
The caterpillar stage causes severe agricultural damage across Puerto Rico, feeding on corn, rice, sorghum, and over 80 other plant species. Larvae display variable coloring from green to brown or black, with distinctive markings including a white inverted Y-shape on the head and four dark spots in a square pattern on the rear segments.
Important Note: Fall armyworm populations can explode rapidly under favorable conditions, transitioning from minor presence to severe infestation within days, requiring constant monitoring in agricultural settings.
You’ll encounter this species wherever grasses and crops grow, from small gardens to large agricultural operations. Adults fly during evening and night hours, with moths attracted to lights. The species maintains year-round populations in Puerto Rico, though numbers fluctuate based on rainfall and host plant availability.
25. Corn Earworm Moth
The corn earworm moth (Helicoverpa zea) displays variable coloring ranging from tan to olive-brown or reddish-brown, with a wingspan of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches. This species ranks among Puerto Rico’s most economically significant agricultural pests, attacking corn, tomatoes, peppers, beans, and numerous other crops.
The larvae feed inside corn ears, tomato fruits, and other crops, making detection and control difficult. Caterpillars show variable coloring from light green to brown or pink, with distinctive stripes along the body and a brown head. They grow to approximately 1.5 to 2 inches in length.
Adult moths are strong fliers and remain active during evening hours, feeding on nectar from various flowers. Females lay eggs individually on suitable host plants, with each moth capable of producing several hundred eggs over her lifetime. Multiple generations occur throughout the year in Puerto Rico’s tropical environment, making the corn earworm a persistent challenge for growers.
You’ll find this species in agricultural areas, home gardens, and anywhere suitable crops grow. Monitoring and management require consistent attention due to the pest’s rapid reproduction and wide host range.
