Species of the Week: Cecropia Moth

Photo by Maya Schmidt

Scientific name: Hyalophora cecropia

The Cecropia Moth is the largest moth species in North America, so you can imagine our surprise when we found it resting on the the staff house porch! The wingspan of the Cecropia Moth ranges from 13cm to an impressive 18cm, and the wings themselves boast gorgeous patterns (as seen above).When the Cecropia Moth emerges from its cocoon in the spring/early summer months, it does not possess a functional mouth. There is no need for them to eat during this adult stage of life (lasting 2 weeks) as their main goal is to reproduce.

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