Content tagged with "Butterflies and Moths"

Least Skipper

Ancyloxypha numitor

One of the smallest skippers in the eastern United States, this species is found in moist, grassy areas, usually near water.

Little Wood Satyr

Megisto cymela

An abundant butterfly found in Missouri’s open woodlands and brushy fields. Its bouncing flight has been called “skipping.”

Luna Moth

Actias luna

This beautiful moth’s distinctive lime-green color and long tails distinguish it from all other North American moths.

Magdalen Underwing

Catocala illecta

Underwing moths are named for their brightly colored hindwings, which are usually hidden beneath the dull brown camouflage of the forewings.

Monarch

Danaus plexippus

These well-known butterflies are distinguished by their relatively large size, rusty or orange wings with black veins and black bodies. The larvae usually are found on milkweeds.

Morning-Glory Prominent

Schizura ipomoeae

This common moth is easily overlooked in Missouri’s woods: The caterpillars mimic curled, dead edges on the leaves they feed on, and the adults blend in with tree bark.