Two Giant Leopard Moths (the second one is hiding underneath the rail)
In June 2013 I encountered these lovely creatures resting on my deck. (Or maybe I interrupted a personal moment?) The Giant Leopard Moth ranges from Canada to Mexico in the eastern US. They prefer forest-type habitat where the caterpillars (a wooly-worm type) can find plenty to eat. Browsing the web I discovered that these moths make good pets–really? Or maybe just good science projects where you can watch a caterpillar develop into a chrysalis and a moth. Although they are supposed to be nocturnal, these were obviously out during the day. Happy me!
Sarcoxie Creek Studio 