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The cecropia moth (Hyalophora cecropia) is the largest native moth in North America. It belongs to the family Saturniidae, known as giant silk moths. The wingspan of the female cecropia moth can reach up to 18 cm (7 inches), and they are found across North America, from Washington state to the Canadian provinces. The larvae of cecropia moths feed on various trees like maple, cherry, and birch.

Life Cycle

• Mating: Males detect females via pheromones, and mating occurs early in the morning. Afterward, the female lays up to 100 eggs on host plants.
• Larval Stages: The caterpillar undergoes five instar stages, starting as tiny black larvae and developing into large, bluish-green caterpillars with colored tubercles. These caterpillars feed on a variety of trees and shrubs.
• Cocoon: Mature caterpillars spin large brown cocoons and overwinter as pupae, emerging in early summer as adults.
• Adults: The adult moth lacks mouthparts and only lives for about two weeks, focusing on reproduction.

Threats

• Parasitoids: Wasps and flies lay eggs in the caterpillars, consuming them from within.
• Predators: Squirrels consume the pupae.
• Environmental Factors: Outdoor lights and pruning of trees can harm the moths.
• Invasive Species: The introduction of Compsilura concinnata, a parasitoid wasp meant to control European gypsy moths, has become a major threat to native cecropia moths.

Scientific Contributions

• The cecropia moth contributed to the discovery of juvenile hormone and immunity-related proteins like cecropin, which plays a role in insect defense.

In the Media

In 2012, a cecropia moth caterpillar was accidentally transported from Ontario to Newfoundland. Named Georgina, this caterpillar became a focus of study, highlighting the moth's significance even outside its natural habitat.