Cecropia Moth: North America’s largest and most colourful silk moth

The natural world is home to countless fascinating insects, but few are as striking as the Cecropia moth. With its plush, velvety body, bold patterns, and impressive wingspan, this giant silk moth often resembles a soft toy more than a real insect. Scientifically known as Hyalophora cecropia, it holds the title of the largest moth native to North America. Found primarily in woodlands and forests east of the Rocky Mountains, the Cecropia moth combines beauty with intriguing survival strategies. Its life cycle, from voracious caterpillar to non-feeding adult, highlights the remarkable adaptations that make this species a true marvel of nature. The Cecropia moth belongs to the Saturniidae family, which is known for large and colourful silk moths. Found primarily east of the Rocky Mounta