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Arguably one of the most spectacular of North America's moths, the Cecropia Moth is also our largest native species. A member of the giant silk moth family (Saturniidae), females can have a wingspan of up to 6" across. They can be found across most of North America east of the Rocky Mountains. The caterpillars feed on a wide variety of host plants including box elder, sugar maple, wild cherries and plums, apples, alder and birch, dogwoods, and willows. Adult Cecropia Moths do not feed and survive for approximately 2 weeks. Their conservation status is secure.

The scientific name, hyalophora cecropia, means glass bearer; King of Athens (Cecrops).