Bright lime green wings outlined in maroon, dramatically long sweeping tails, and bushy antennae lead the general public to frequently misidentify these large Lepidoptera as butterflies instead of moths. Scientifically known as Actias luna, this species' common name originates from the false eyespots known as "moons" found on its wings.

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Although fairly common throughout the eastern United States, their nocturnal flying habits and short life span as adults make luna moths a rare find. Luna moths are strong fliers that prefer deciduous hardwood forests, but fare well in urban settings. Indeed, sometimes a careful observer can catch a glimpse of a male luna moth circling a city lamppost very late at night. Females are less often seen than their male counterparts because they do not fly until after mating and usually emerge later. Adults only live for about a week and do not eat during that time. Adult luna moths have no functional mouthparts and must survive solely on the energy stores gained in their larval stage, as they strive to reproduce successfully.

Due to their striking beauty, luna moths are often reared in captivity. They are an integral part of the lucrative lepidopteran trade, and dried adults, live eggs, larvae, and pupae are often sold for profit. Unfortunately for collectors, however, this species is not as vibrant in death as it is in life. Dried specimens fade to a pale yellow, leaving only a faint shadow of what was once a dazzling, luminous green.