Cecropia Moth

Mid summer evenings are often the times when Hoosiers are treated to the appearance of spectacular giant silkworm moths. These moths often have a 6 - 7 inch wingspan and include the largest moths in North America. Silkworm moths vary in color and wing markings and include the famous Cecropia, Promethea, Polyphemus, Regal, and Imperial moths. They are attracted to lights from ballparks or parking lots where they find mates. Sometimes they can be found early in the mornings resting beneath such lights. As adults, these moths do not feed, but they develop from very large caterpillars that have voracious appetites for several hardwood tree leaves.

--Tim Gibb, Department of Entomology, Purdue University