New Hampshire’s summer evenings come alive with the gentle flutter of moths drawn to porch lights and moonbeams. While butterflies often steal the spotlight during daylight hours, the Granite State’s nocturnal lepidopterans offer an equally captivating display of colors, patterns, and behaviors that many nature enthusiasts never get to witness.
From the massive wingspan of the Cecropia moth to the delicate beauty of clearwing species that mimic hummingbirds, New Hampshire hosts an incredible diversity of moth species that play crucial roles in the state’s ecosystem.
You’ll discover that moths are far more than the drab, light-obsessed insects many people imagine them to be. These remarkable creatures showcase intricate wing patterns, fascinating life cycles, and unique adaptations that rival any butterfly species.
Whether you’re a seasoned lepidopterist or simply curious about the nocturnal visitors to your backyard, this comprehensive guide will help you identify and appreciate 25 of New Hampshire’s most notable moth species.
1. Luna Moth
The Luna moth (Actias luna) stands as one of North America’s most breathtaking nocturnal insects. You’ll recognize this ethereal creature by its pale green wings that seem to glow in moonlight, complemented by distinctive eyespots and elegant trailing tails on the hindwings. Adults typically measure 4.5 inches across, making them one of the larger moths you’ll encounter in New Hampshire.
Pro Tip: Luna moths are most active from May through July, with peak emergence occurring during warm, humid nights following spring rains.
These magnificent moths prefer deciduous forests where their caterpillars feed on birch, hickory, walnut, and sweet gum trees. Adult Luna moths don’t feed at all, living solely off energy stored during their caterpillar stage. You’re most likely to spot them near outdoor lights during their brief adult lifespan of just one week. Their cocoons, which you might find attached to tree bark during winter months, are papery brown structures that provide protection through New Hampshire’s harsh winters.
2. Cecropia Moth
North America’s largest native moth, the Cecropia moth (Hyalophora cecropia), commands attention with its impressive 6-inch wingspan and stunning reddish-brown coloration. You’ll identify this species by the distinctive white crescents and red bands that decorate its wings, along with prominent eyespots that serve as defense mechanisms against predators.
Cecropia moths emerge from their cocoons in late May through June, timing their appearance with the warming temperatures of New Hampshire’s late spring. The caterpillars feed on a variety of trees including maple, cherry, birch, and apple, making them common in both wild and suburban areas. Like other giant silk moths, adults don’t feed and focus entirely on reproduction during their short adult lives. You can find their large, brown cocoons attached to tree branches during winter, often resembling small paper bags hanging from deciduous trees.
3. Polyphemus Moth
Named after the one-eyed giant from Greek mythology, the Polyphemus moth (Antheraea polyphemus) features striking eyespots that can startle potential predators. These large moths display beautiful tan and brown coloration with transparent “windows” in their wings, creating an almost mystical appearance when they take flight during New Hampshire’s summer evenings.
With a wingspan reaching 5.5 inches, Polyphemus moths rank among the state’s most impressive lepidopterans. Their caterpillars feed on over 60 different tree species, including oak, maple, birch, and willow, making them adaptable to various habitats throughout New Hampshire. Adults emerge from late May through July, with males using their feathery antennae to detect female pheromones from remarkable distances. The species overwinters as pupae in tough, brown cocoons that you might discover wrapped in fallen leaves during autumn cleanup.
4. Promethea Moth
The Promethea moth (Callosamia promethea) exhibits dramatic sexual dimorphism, with males displaying dark wings bordered in tan and females showing lighter coloration with prominent eyespots. This medium-sized silk moth, with a wingspan of 3-4 inches, represents one of New Hampshire’s most sexually dimorphic moth species.
You’ll find Promethea moths in deciduous and mixed forests where their caterpillars feed on cherry, ash, sassafras, and spicebush. The species produces one generation per year, with adults flying from June through August. Males fly during daylight hours searching for females, making them easier to observe than many nocturnal species. Their cocoons, wrapped in leaves and suspended from branches, often persist through winter and can be spotted during the dormant season when deciduous trees are bare.
5. Io Moth
The Io moth (Automeris io) creates one of nature’s most effective defensive displays with its large, intimidating eyespots on bright yellow hindwings. When threatened, these moths flash their hindwings to reveal what appears to be the face of a much larger predator, often startling potential threats long enough to escape.
Males display yellow forewings while females show reddish-brown coloration, both featuring the characteristic eyespots that give this species its distinctive appearance. Io moths prefer areas near deciduous trees where their caterpillars feed on corn, roses, willows, and various other plants. The caterpillars are particularly notable for their stinging spines, which can cause skin irritation similar to other defensive insects. Adults fly from May through September, producing multiple generations in favorable conditions.
6. Rosy Maple Moth
Perhaps New Hampshire’s most charming moth species, the Rosy Maple moth (Dryocampa rubicunda) displays delightful pink and yellow coloration that seems almost too vibrant to be real. These small to medium-sized moths, with wingspans of 1.25-2 inches, bring a touch of whimsy to summer nights with their soft, woolly appearance and gentle flight patterns.
As their name suggests, these moths have a strong association with maple trees, though their caterpillars also feed on oak species. The bright green caterpillars, known as greenstriped mapleworms, can occasionally cause defoliation in maple stands but rarely reach damaging population levels. Adults emerge from May through September, with peak activity during warm summer evenings. Their fuzzy, teddy bear-like appearance makes them among the most photographed moths when they appear at porch lights.
Key Insight: Rosy Maple moths often vary in coloration intensity, with some individuals showing pale yellow and pink while others display deep rose and cream patterns.
7. Virginian Tiger Moth
The Virginian Tiger moth (Spilosoma virginica) represents one of New Hampshire’s most variable moth species, with individuals ranging from pure white to heavily spotted with black dots. This adaptability in appearance helps the species blend into different environments and avoid predation.
These medium-sized moths, with wingspans of 1.25-2.25 inches, produce multiple generations per year in New Hampshire’s climate. Their caterpillars, known as yellow woolly bears, feed on a wide variety of plants including grasses, weeds, and garden vegetables. Adults fly from April through October, making them one of the longest-active moth species in the state. You’ll often find them attracted to lights during warm evenings, and their white or lightly marked wings make them easy to spot against dark backgrounds.
8. Isabella Tiger Moth
Famous for its caterpillar stage known as the woolly bear, the Isabella Tiger moth (Pyrrharctia isabella) holds a special place in New Hampshire folklore. The brown and black banded caterpillars are often used in folk predictions about winter severity, though scientific evidence doesn’t support these weather forecasting abilities.
Adult Isabella Tiger moths display modest orange-yellow wings with scattered black spots and a wingspan of 1.5-2 inches. They emerge from May through July after overwintering as caterpillars. The species feeds on a remarkable variety of plants during its larval stage, including plantain, dandelion, and numerous garden plants. Adults are attracted to lights and can be commonly observed during summer evenings throughout the Northeast.
9. Garden Tiger Moth
The Garden Tiger moth (Arctia caja) showcases some of the most intricate wing patterns found among New Hampshire’s moths. The forewings display complex brown and white markings that resemble stained glass, while the hindwings reveal bright orange coloration with blue-black spots.
These large tiger moths, with wingspans reaching 2.5 inches, have experienced population declines in some areas but remain present in New Hampshire’s diverse habitats. Their caterpillars, covered in dense, bristly hairs, feed on numerous plants including nettles, dandelions, and various shrubs. Adults fly from June through August, and their striking appearance makes them memorable encounters for anyone fortunate enough to observe them. The species prefers areas with abundant wildflowers and diverse plant communities.
10. Clymene Moth
The Clymene moth (Haploa clymene) presents a study in elegant simplicity with its cream-colored wings marked by distinctive brown patterns. These medium-sized moths create striking geometric designs that make them easily recognizable among New Hampshire’s diverse moth fauna.
Adults typically measure 1.5-2 inches across and fly from June through August. Their caterpillars feed on various plants including joe-pye weed, eupatorium, and other native wildflowers, making them important pollinators during their adult stage. You’ll find Clymene moths in meadows, forest edges, and areas with abundant flowering plants. Their preference for native plant communities makes them indicators of healthy, diverse ecosystems.
11. Banded Tussock Moth
The Banded Tussock moth (Halysidota tessellaris) displays subtle beauty in its pale yellow wings decorated with translucent spots and delicate brown markings. These moths represent the adult stage of the distinctive yellow and black striped caterpillars that feed on various deciduous trees.
With wingspans of 1.25-2 inches, Banded Tussock moths emerge from June through August. Their caterpillars prefer birch, oak, and other hardwood trees, occasionally becoming numerous enough to cause noticeable defoliation. The adult moths are attracted to lights and can be observed during warm summer evenings. Their caterpillars overwinter in cocoons, emerging as adults the following summer to continue the cycle.
12. Gypsy Moth
The Gypsy moth (Lymantria dispar dispar) represents one of New Hampshire’s most significant invasive species, introduced from Europe in the 1860s. While ecologically problematic, these moths display notable sexual dimorphism with males showing brown wings and feathery antennae, while females are larger and white with dark markings.
Important Note: Gypsy moths are considered a serious forest pest in New Hampshire, capable of defoliating large areas of deciduous forest during outbreak years.
Males fly actively during the day searching for females, who are too heavy to fly effectively. The species produces one generation per year, with adults emerging from mid-July through August. Their caterpillars feed on over 300 tree species but show preference for oak, which makes up a significant portion of New Hampshire’s forests. Management efforts continue throughout the state to control populations and minimize forest damage.
13. Fall Webworm Moth
The Fall Webworm moth (Hyphantria cunea) creates one of the most recognizable signs of its presence through the large, silky webs its caterpillars construct in tree branches during late summer. Adult moths display pure white wings, though some individuals show black spots scattered across the wing surfaces.
These moths produce two generations per year in New Hampshire, with adults flying from May through August. Their caterpillars feed on over 100 different tree species, creating conspicuous webs that protect the colony while they feed. While the webs can be unsightly, they rarely cause lasting damage to healthy trees. Adults measure 1-1.5 inches across and are strongly attracted to lights, making them common visitors to outdoor lighting during summer months.
14. White-marked Tussock Moth
The White-marked Tussock moth (Orgyia leucostigma) exhibits extreme sexual dimorphism, with males possessing functional wings while females are wingless and remain near their cocoons to attract mates. This unusual reproductive strategy makes them one of New Hampshire’s most interesting moth species from a behavioral perspective.
Males display gray-brown wings with white markings and measure about 1 inch across. Their caterpillars are easily recognized by their colorful tufts of hair and distinctive brush-like projections. The species feeds on numerous deciduous trees and shrubs, occasionally reaching pest status in urban areas. Adults emerge from June through August, with males actively flying during daylight hours in search of females.
15. White-lined Sphinx Moth
The White-lined Sphinx moth (Hyles lineata) ranks among New Hampshire’s most accomplished fliers, capable of hovering at flowers like a hummingbird while feeding on nectar. These large sphinx moths display distinctive white lines across their brown forewings and pink hindwings that flash during flight.
With wingspans reaching 3.5 inches, these moths are powerful migrants that can travel hundreds of miles. They’re often seen during daylight hours visiting flowers, making them more observable than many nocturnal species. Their caterpillars feed on various plants including evening primrose, grape, and elm. The species produces multiple generations in favorable years, with adults flying from May through October. You might observe them feeding at garden flowers during evening hours.
16. Blinded Sphinx Moth
The Blinded Sphinx moth (Paonias excaecatus) gets its name from the prominent eyespots on its hindwings that become visible when the moth is threatened. These medium-sized sphinx moths display subtle brown and gray coloration that provides excellent camouflage when resting on tree bark.
Adults emerge from May through July and measure 2-3 inches across. Their caterpillars feed on cherry, willow, and poplar trees, often going unnoticed due to their excellent camouflage. The species produces one generation per year and overwinters as pupae in the soil. Adults are attracted to lights but are less commonly observed than some other sphinx moth species due to their more secretive nature.
17. Small-eyed Sphinx Moth
Despite its name, the Small-eyed Sphinx moth (Paonias myops) features relatively prominent eyespots on its hindwings, though smaller than those of its close relative, the Blinded Sphinx. These moths display beautiful pink and brown coloration with intricate patterns that make them among the most attractive sphinx moths in New Hampshire.
Adults fly from May through July, with a wingspan of 2-3 inches. Their caterpillars feed primarily on cherry and related trees, and the species produces one generation per year. Small-eyed Sphinx moths are attracted to lights and can occasionally be observed feeding at flowers during evening hours. The combination of their attractive coloration and relatively large size makes them memorable encounters for moth enthusiasts.
18. Hummingbird Clearwing Moth
The Hummingbird Clearwing moth (Hemaris thysbe) creates one of nature’s most remarkable examples of mimicry, closely resembling a tiny hummingbird as it hovers at flowers during daylight hours. These day-flying moths feature transparent wings and rapid wing beats that complete the illusion.
You’ll recognize these moths by their olive-green and burgundy coloration and their distinctive hovering flight pattern. They visit a wide variety of flowers including bee balm, phlox, and honeysuckle, serving as important pollinators. Their caterpillars feed on snowberry, hawthorn, and related plants. Adults produce two generations per year, flying from May through September. The species represents an excellent example of moth pollination services that many people never realize they’re observing.
Pro Tip: Hummingbird Clearwing moths are most active during warm, sunny afternoons and can often be observed in gardens with abundant flowering plants.
19. Snowberry Clearwing Moth
The Snowberry Clearwing moth (Hemaris diffinis) shares many characteristics with its hummingbird-mimicking relative but displays black borders on its clear wings and darker body coloration. These day-flying moths demonstrate similar hovering abilities and flower-visiting behaviors.
Adults measure about 1.5 inches across and produce two generations per year in New Hampshire. Their caterpillars feed on snowberry, dogbane, and honeysuckle plants. You’ll often see these moths visiting the same flowers as butterflies and their clearwing relatives, creating opportunities for interesting behavioral observations. The species flies from April through October, with peak activity during warm summer months when flowers are most abundant.
20. Large Yellow Underwing
The Large Yellow Underwing (Noctua pronuba) represents a successful European introduction that has established itself throughout New Hampshire. These moths display cryptic brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage, but flash bright yellow hindwings when disturbed or in flight.
With wingspans of 2-2.5 inches, these robust moths are strongly attracted to lights and can become quite common around outdoor lighting during their flight season from July through October. Their caterpillars feed on grasses and various herbaceous plants, occasionally causing damage to turf and garden plants. The species produces one generation per year and has adapted well to New Hampshire’s climate and available host plants.
21. Imperial Moth
The Imperial moth (Eacles imperialis) lives up to its regal name with impressive size and beautiful yellow wings decorated with purple-brown markings. These large silk moths rank among New Hampshire’s most spectacular species, though they’re less commonly encountered than some other giant moths.
Adults measure 4-6 inches across and emerge from June through August. Their caterpillars feed on various trees including pine, oak, maple, and sweet gum, making them adaptable to different forest types. Imperial moths prefer mature forests and may be declining in some areas due to habitat changes. Adults don’t feed and focus entirely on reproduction during their brief adult lives. You’re most likely to encounter them attracted to lights during warm summer evenings.
22. Pink-striped Oakworm Moth
The Pink-striped Oakworm moth (Anisota virginiensis) displays sexual dimorphism with males showing smaller size and more vibrant coloration than females. These moths are closely associated with oak trees, which serve as the primary host plants for their caterpillars.
Adults emerge from June through August and measure 1.5-2.5 inches across. Their caterpillars can occasionally reach high densities and cause noticeable defoliation of oak trees, though healthy trees typically recover without lasting damage. The species produces one generation per year and overwinters as pupae in the soil. Males are more commonly observed due to their active flight patterns during mating season.
23. Modest Sphinx
The Modest Sphinx (Pachysphinx modesta) represents one of the larger sphinx moths found in New Hampshire, with adults measuring 4-5 inches across. These impressive moths display subtle gray and brown coloration that provides excellent camouflage when resting on tree bark.
Their caterpillars feed primarily on poplar and willow trees, often reaching impressive sizes before pupation. Adults emerge from May through July and are attracted to lights, though they’re less commonly observed than some other sphinx moth species. The species produces one generation per year and overwinters as pupae in the soil beneath host trees.
24. Leopard Moth
The Leopard moth (Zeuzera pyrina) displays distinctive white wings covered with black spots that give it its common name. This European introduction has established populations throughout New Hampshire, though it’s considered a minor pest species due to its wood-boring larvae.
Adults measure 1.5-2.5 inches across and emerge from June through August. Their caterpillars bore into the wood of various deciduous trees, potentially weakening branches and trunks. The species produces one generation per year, with larvae requiring two years to complete development. Adults are attracted to lights and can be observed during summer evenings, though they’re not as commonly encountered as many native species.
25. Yellow-collared Scape Moth
The Yellow-collared Scape moth (Cisseps fulvicollis) displays distinctive black wings with bright yellow or orange collar markings that make it easily recognizable. These day-flying moths are often mistaken for wasps due to their coloration and flight patterns.
Adults measure about 1 inch across and fly from June through September. Their caterpillars feed on various plants including lichens, grasses, and herbaceous vegetation. The species produces one generation per year and can be observed visiting flowers during daylight hours. Their wasp-like appearance likely provides protection from predators that avoid stinging insects. You might spot them in mixed insect communities visiting late-summer flowers.
Observing Moths in New Hampshire
Successfully observing New Hampshire’s diverse moth fauna requires understanding their habits and preferred conditions. Most species are most active during warm, humid nights with minimal wind and cloud cover. Setting up a simple moth observation station with a white sheet and bright light can attract dozens of species during peak season.
Best Viewing Conditions | Peak Activity Times | Recommended Locations |
|---|---|---|
Warm, humid nights (65°F+) | 10 PM – 2 AM | Forest edges, meadows, gardens |
Minimal wind and precipitation | New moon periods | Areas with diverse plant communities |
Overcast but not rainy conditions | Late spring through early fall | Near water sources and native plants |
The timing of moth activity varies significantly throughout the season, with different species emerging at specific times. Early season species like Luna and Cecropia moths appear in late May and June, while late-season species continue flying into October. Understanding these patterns can help you target specific species for observation and photography.
Key Insight: Mercury vapor lights are most effective for attracting moths, but LED lights with UV components also work well and consume less energy.
Creating moth-friendly habitat in your yard involves planting native trees and shrubs that serve as host plants for caterpillars. Oak, maple, cherry, and birch trees support numerous species, while native wildflowers provide nectar sources for adults. Avoiding pesticide use and maintaining some wild areas with leaf litter and natural debris provides overwintering sites for pupae and eggs.
New Hampshire’s moths represent a fascinating and often overlooked component of the state’s biodiversity. From the ethereal beauty of Luna moths to the impressive size of Cecropia moths, these nocturnal lepidopterans offer endless opportunities for observation, photography, and appreciation.
By understanding their habits, life cycles, and habitat requirements, you can develop a deeper connection with these remarkable creatures that share New Hampshire’s forests, meadows, and gardens.
Whether you encounter them at your porch light or seek them out in their natural habitats, moths throughout the region continue to surprise and delight those who take the time to observe their nocturnal world.
