Common Name - Giant Silk Moth

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Saturniidae

Cecropia moths are one of our largest moths in North Dakota with a wing span up to six inches. The adults have thick, robust bodies that have reddish, white, and black stripes.    Because of its impressive size, they are often a target of insect collectors.

The caterpillars are large and quite impressive.  They feed on a large variety of host plants and is not considered a pest to landscapers or farmers.  Preference to maple, cherry, and birch trees has been shown in studies. Even though the cecropia caterpillar is covered in multi-colored knobs and appendage, they are not dangerous or poisonous.  However, like most animals in nature, it is always best to leave them alone and let them live free.