A large yellow-and-pinkish-brown silkmoth with stunning eyespots and a wingspan over 5 inches. Caterpillars are equally spectacular — fuzzy, horned, and over 4 inches long at maturity.

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeWingspan 10–15 cm (4–6 in)
Weight~1.5 g
LifespanAdults 1–2 weeks
OrderLepidoptera
FamilySaturniidae

§ Encyclopedia

Eacles imperialis, the imperial moth, is a member of the family Saturniidae and subfamily Ceratocampinae. It is found mainly in the East of South America and North America, from the center of Argentina to south Canada. The species was first described by Dru Drury in 1773.

Source: Wikipedia — Eacles imperialis Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Massive yellow-bodied silkmoth with reddish-brown wing markings.

Similar species. Polyphemus Moth. Cecropia Moth (darker).

Voice. Silent.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Adults: do not eat. Caterpillars: many tree species.

Behavior. Large silkmoth with prominent yellow body.

§ Range

Eastern North America

§ Habitat

Mature deciduous and mixed forests

§ Threats

Forest loss, light pollution, parasitoid flies, pesticide drift.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the imperial moth is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Reduce outdoor lighting. Maintain mature forest cover. Skip yard pesticides.

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§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Butterflies and Moths of North America
  • Xerces Society
  • BugGuide
  • iNaturalist