Saturniidae
Guides
Actias
Moon Moths, Asian-American Moon Moths
Actias is a genus of Saturniid moths commonly known as moon moths, distributed across Asia and the Americas. The genus is distinguished by elongated hindwing tails and includes well-known species such as the Luna moth (A. luna) of North America and the Spanish moon moth (A. isabellae) of Europe. Adult moths lack functional mouthparts, limiting their lifespan to several days to one week after emergence. Caterpillars feed on leaves of various woody plants including sweetgum, pine, hickory, walnut, and birch.
Actias luna
Luna Moth, North American Luna Moon Moth
Actias luna, the Luna moth, is a large, lime-green saturniid moth native to North America, recognized as one of the continent's most visually striking insects. Adults possess a wingspan reaching up to 114 mm (4.5 inches), with distinctive elongated hindwing tails and prominent eyespots that may confuse predators. The species exhibits strong sexual dimorphism: males have highly feathery antennae for detecting female pheromones, while females have slender antennae and larger abdomens. Larvae feed on a variety of broadleaf trees including sweetgum, hickory, walnut, birch, and sumac. The moth is univoltine in northern portions of its range, with larvae overwintering in leaf-litter-camouflaged cocoons before emerging as adults in spring; southern populations may produce two or three broods annually.
Agapema anona
greasewood silkmoth, Mexican agapema, Condalia Silk Moth
Agapema anona is a giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, found in the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. Larvae feed exclusively on plants in the genus Condalia, while adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed. The species inhabits arid environments including desert foothills and alluvial fans. Three subspecies are recognized, distinguished by geographic distribution.
Agapema homogena
Rocky Mountain Agapema
Agapema homogena is a giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Dyar in 1908. It is commonly known as the Rocky Mountain Agapema. The species occurs in North America and Central America. Adults are nocturnal and do not feed.
Anisota consularis
Florida oakworm moth, consular oakworm moth
Anisota consularis is a saturniid moth native to southeastern North America. Larvae feed on oak foliage, often in gregarious groups, and can cause noticeable defoliation during outbreak years. The species was described by Harrison Gray Dyar Jr. in 1896 and is distinguished from related oakworms by its more restricted Florida-centered distribution.
Anisota manitobensis
Manitoba Oakworm Moth
Anisota manitobensis, the Manitoba oakworm moth, is a species of royal moth in the family Saturniidae. It is found in North America, primarily in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. Early instar caterpillars are highly gregarious, feeding in groups on oak leaves.
Anisota senatoria
orangestriped oakworm, orange-tipped oakworm
Anisota senatoria is a Nearctic silk moth in the family Saturniidae, commonly known as the orangestriped oakworm. It is one of the more common Saturniids in eastern North America, occasionally reaching pest status in the northern parts of its range. The species is notable for being a late-season feeder on oak foliage, which limits its long-term impact on host tree health. Adults are sexually dimorphic: females are larger, yellow-orange with silver-white spots and faint black lines across the wings, while males are smaller and reddish-brown. The species is very similar to A. finlaysoni in southern Ontario and A. peigleri in the southern United States.
Anisota stigma
Spiny Oakworm Moth
Anisota stigma is a Saturniidae moth commonly known as the spiny oakworm moth. The species occurs across eastern and central North America, with males uniquely attracted to light among Anisota species. Its larvae feed primarily on oak foliage. The moth was first described by Johan Christian Fabricius in 1775.
Anisota virginiensis
pink-striped oakworm moth
Anisota virginiensis, the pink-striped oakworm moth, is a North American silk moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults display strong sexual dimorphism in wing coloration, with females showing purplish-red and ochre-yellow wings and males showing purplish-brown wings with a large transparent central area. The species is known for gregarious larval behavior and late-season defoliation of oak and other hardwood trees. It is widely distributed across eastern North America and is occasionally considered a minor forest pest, though late-season defoliation rarely causes significant tree mortality.
Anisota virginiensis discolor
pink-striped oakworm
Anisota virginiensis discolor is a subspecies of the pink-striped oakworm, a wild silk moth in the family Saturniidae. The larvae are gregarious feeders on oak foliage, capable of causing localized heavy defoliation. Caterpillars are visually distinctive with pink or orange longitudinal stripes and fleshy horns behind the head. The subspecies is part of a complex of oak-feeding Anisota species that periodically reach outbreak levels, though damage is typically aesthetic rather than causing long-term tree harm.
Antheraea
tussar moths
Antheraea is a genus of giant silk moths in the family Saturniidae, established by Jacob Hübner in 1819. Species in this genus are notable for producing wild silk of commercial importance, commonly known as "tussar silk" or "tussah silk." The genus includes species distributed across Asia, North America, and other regions, with several species cultivated for sericulture. Caterpillars of Antheraea species feed on diverse host plants including oaks and other woody trees.
Antheraea polyphemus
Polyphemus moth, Polyphemus silk moth
A large North American silk moth with tan to brown coloration and distinctive purplish eyespots on the hindwings, named after the cyclops Polyphemus from Greek mythology. Adults have vestigial mouthparts and do not feed, living less than one week. The species produces silk cocoons and has been used in hybridization experiments with other silk moths. Two broods typically emerge annually across most of its range.
Automeris cecrops pamina
Automeris cecrops pamina is a subspecies of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae, occurring in southwestern North America and Middle America. As a member of the Automeris genus, adults possess distinctive eyespots on the hindwings used for predator defense. The caterpillars bear urticating spines capable of delivering a painful sting. This subspecies represents the western portion of the broader Automeris cecrops species complex.
Automeris io
Io moth, peacock moth
Automeris io is a colorful North American saturniid moth with sexual dimorphism in adult coloration: males are bright yellow, females reddish-brown to purple. Both sexes possess distinctive eyespots on the hindwings used in anti-predator displays. The caterpillars are gregarious, bright green with red and white lateral stripes, and possess venomous urticating spines that cause painful stings. Adults are nocturnal, lack functional mouthparts, and live 1–2 weeks. Populations have declined in parts of their range, particularly in New England, due to habitat loss and parasitism by introduced biological control agents.
Automeris iris
Iris Eyed Silkmoth
Automeris iris is a silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, known as the iris eyed silkmoth. It occurs in Central and North America. Like other Automeris species, adults possess distinctive eyespots on the hindwings used for predator defense. The caterpillars bear urticating spines capable of delivering painful stings.
Automeris louisiana
Louisiana eyed silkmoth
Automeris louisiana, the Louisiana eyed silkmoth, is a species of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. It is native to North America and was described by Ferguson and Brou in 1981. Like other members of the genus Automeris, adults are characterized by prominent eyespots on the hindwings used for predator deterrence. The species has been subject to a petition for listing under the U.S. Endangered Species Act, with a status review initiated in 2011.
Automeris zephyria
Zephyr Eyed Silkmoth
Automeris zephyria, the zephyr eyed silkmoth, is a species of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. It belongs to the eyed silkmoth genus Automeris, characterized by prominent eyespot markings on the hindwings used for predator defense. The species was described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1882. Like other members of its genus, adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed during their brief adult stage.
Callosamia
promethea moths, silkmoths
Callosamia is a genus of large silkmoths in the family Saturniidae, first described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864. The genus contains three North American species: C. promethea, C. angulifera, and C. securifera. These moths are notable for their striking appearance, strong host plant associations with woody plants, and distinct behavioral differences including diurnal versus nocturnal mating activity that contributes to reproductive isolation between sibling species.
Callosamia angulifera
Tuliptree Silkmoth, Giant Silkmoth
Callosamia angulifera is a large saturniid moth native to eastern North America. Adults are nocturnal, with flight activity occurring from June through August in northern populations and March through August in southern populations where two generations occur annually. The species exhibits strong host plant specificity, with larvae feeding exclusively on tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera). Adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed. The species is closely related to Callosamia promethea and C. securifera, with which it shares morphological similarities but differs in host plant use and diel activity patterns.
Callosamia promethea
Promethea Silkmoth, Spicebush Silkmoth
Callosamia promethea is a North American silk moth in the family Saturniidae, notable for being the only member of its family with sexually dimorphic activity patterns: males are diurnal while females are nocturnal. Adults do not feed. Larvae feed on a broad range of host plants across multiple families, including Rosaceae, Oleaceae, and Lauraceae. The species produces silk for cocoon construction and exhibits distinctive defensive behaviors including thanatosis and chemical secretion.
Calosaturnia
Calosaturnia is a small genus of giant silk moths in the family Saturniidae, first described by John Bernhard Smith in 1886. The genus contains three recognized species, all endemic to western North America. Taxonomic placement has been unstable; the group is sometimes treated as a subgenus of Saturnia. The genus is notable for its restricted geographic range and distinctive wing patterns.
Calosaturnia albofasciata
white-streaked saturnia moth
Calosaturnia albofasciata is a silkmoth endemic to California, United States. It was described by Johnson in 1938 and was formerly placed in the genus Saturnia. The species is known by the common name white-streaked saturnia moth, referring to its distinctive wing pattern. It carries Hodges number 7753 in the MONA numbering system.
Calosaturnia mendocino
Mendocino Silk Moth, Mendocino Saturnia Moth
Calosaturnia mendocino is a silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, first described as Saturnia mendocino by Behrens in 1876. It is endemic to California, United States. The species belongs to a small genus of North American saturniid moths.
Calosaturnia walterorum
Walter's Silkmoth, Walter's saturnia moth
Calosaturnia walterorum, known as Walter's Silkmoth, is a saturniid moth described by Hogue and Johnson in 1958. It was originally placed in the genus Saturnia before being transferred to Calosaturnia. The species occurs in a restricted range spanning southern California and adjacent Mexico. It is among the smaller and less frequently encountered silkmoths in western North America.
Ceratocampinae
Royal Moths
Ceratocampinae is a subfamily of giant silk moths in the family Saturniidae, commonly known as royal moths. Species are found exclusively in the New World. The subfamily includes large, strikingly colored moths with reduced or vestigial adult mouthparts; adults do not feed. Larvae are typically large and often bear prominent horns or tubercles, though they are harmless despite their fierce appearance. Representative genera include Citheronia (regal moth), Eacles (imperial moth), and Anisota.
Citheronia
Citheronia is a genus of giant silk moths (Saturniidae) established by Jacob Hübner in 1819. The genus comprises approximately 20 species distributed across the Americas, from the United States through Mexico, Central America, and into South America as far as Argentina. The genus is notable for its large, striking caterpillars—such as the famous "hickory horned devil" of C. regalis—which bear prominent horn-like projections and undergo dramatic morphological changes between instars. Adults are characterized by reduced or non-functional mouthparts and short adult lifespans devoted primarily to reproduction.
Citheronia regalis
Regal Moth, Royal Walnut Moth
Citheronia regalis is a large North American saturniid moth known as the regal moth or royal walnut moth. Its larval stage, the hickory horned devil, is one of the largest caterpillars in North America north of Mexico and is notable for its striking appearance with prominent red and black horns. Adults have vestigial mouthparts and do not feed, living only about a week to mate and lay eggs. The species has a single generation per year throughout most of its range.
Citheronia sepulcralis
pine-devil moth
Citheronia sepulcralis, commonly known as the pine-devil moth, is a giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults are blackish-brown in color and lack functional mouthparts. The species occurs across the eastern and southeastern United States, with larvae feeding exclusively on pine species. Multiple broods occur in southern regions, while northern populations are univoltine.
Citheronia splendens
Splendid Royal Moth
Citheronia splendens, the splendid royal moth, is a large saturniid moth found from southern Arizona southward into central and southeastern Mexico. Adults have a wingspan of 106–150 mm and are active from July to August. The species was first described by Herbert Druce in 1886 and is recognized by three described subspecies.
Citheronia splendens sinaloensis
Citheronia splendens sinaloensis is a subspecies of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, described by Hoffmann in 1942. It belongs to a genus whose larvae are commonly known as "hickory horned devils" due to their large size and prominent horn-like tubercles. The subspecies epithet "sinaloensis" indicates a type locality in Sinaloa, Mexico, distinguishing it from the nominate subspecies C. splendens splendens found in Arizona. Like other members of the genus, it undergoes complete metamorphosis with dramatically different appearances between early and late larval instars.
Coloradia
pinemoths
Coloradia is a genus of large saturniid moths comprising nine described species distributed in Mexico and eastern North America. Adults are predominantly grey in coloration. Larvae feed primarily on pines (Pinaceae), though Coloradia pandora has been recorded on aspen (Populus). Members are commonly referred to as pinemoths. The genus was established by C. A. Blake in 1863.
Coloradia luski
Lusk's pine moth, Lusk's Pinemoth
Coloradia luski, commonly known as Lusk's pine moth, is a saturniid moth species described by Barnes and Benjamin in 1926. It belongs to the genus Coloradia, a group of pine-feeding moths distributed in western North America. The species is recorded in the MONA/Hodges system under number 7726. Like other members of its genus, it is associated with pine forests, though specific biological details remain poorly documented in published literature.
Coloradia pandora
Pandora Pinemoth, Pandora Moth
Coloradia pandora is a large saturniid moth native to western North America. The larvae are specialized feeders on pine foliage, with documented hosts including lodgepole pine, Jeffrey pine, and ponderosa pine. Outbreak populations occasionally cause severe defoliation in coniferous forests of northern Arizona, central Oregon, and southern California. The species has historical significance for indigenous peoples; the Paiute traditionally harvested larvae as a food source. Adults are nocturnal and do not feed.
Coloradia pandora davisi
Coloradia pandora davisi is a subspecies of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Barnes and Benjamin in 1926. It represents the southernmost population of Coloradia pandora, distributed in Middle America and the southwestern United States. Like other Hemileucinae, adults do not feed and rely on fat reserves accumulated during the larval stage. The subspecies is distinguished from the nominate form by geographic range and subtle morphological differences.
Coloradia pandora pandora
Pandora sphinx moth
Coloradia pandora pandora is a subspecies of the Pandora sphinx moth, a large saturniid moth native to North and Middle America. Adults are characterized by their heavy-bodied, streamlined form and rapid, powerful flight. The subspecies is primarily distinguished by geographic distribution and subtle morphological differences from other Coloradia pandora subspecies. Larvae are hornworms that feed on grape family plants, particularly Virginia creeper.
Coloradia velda
Velda Pine Moth
Coloradia velda is a species of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae, described by Johnson and Walter in 1981. It belongs to the genus Coloradia, which comprises pine-feeding moths distributed across western North America. The species is known from limited records and appears to be associated with pine forests. Adults are nocturnal and do not feed; larvae feed on pine needles. The sex pheromone has been characterized chemically, with (E4,Z9)-tetradecadienal identified as a key component.
Dryocampa
rosy maple moths
Dryocampa is a genus of small saturniid moths native to North America, containing approximately seven described species. The genus is best known for Dryocampa rubicunda, the rosy maple moth, recognized by its distinctive pink and yellow coloration. Larvae of this genus feed on maple trees (Acer species), with some species occasionally reaching outbreak densities that cause noticeable defoliation. Adults are typically nocturnal and possess reduced mouthparts, not feeding as adults.
Dryocampa rubicunda
rosy maple moth
Dryocampa rubicunda, commonly known as the rosy maple moth, is a small saturniid moth native to eastern North America. Adults are distinguished by their striking pink and yellow coloration, which varies from cream or white to bright pink or yellow. The species exhibits sexual dimorphism: males have narrower, less rounded wings and bipectinate antennae for detecting female pheromones, while females have broader wings and simple antennae. Larvae, known as greenstriped mapleworms, feed on maple leaves and can cause temporary defoliation in outbreak years.
Eacles imperialis
Imperial Moth
Eacles imperialis is a large saturniid moth with the widest geographic range in its genus, extending from southern Canada to Argentina. Adults display substantial color variation, with yellow base coloration and variable red, brown, and purple markings. The species has experienced regional decline in the northeastern United States, with some New England populations extirpated, while remaining common in the Mid-Atlantic, Appalachia, and Deep South.
Eacles imperialis imperialis
Imperial moth
Eacles imperialis imperialis is a subspecies of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults are large, colorful moths with yellow and purple-brown patterning. Unlike many related silk moths, larvae do not spin silk cocoons; instead they burrow into soil to pupate. The subspecies has experienced significant population declines in parts of New England, including extirpation from Connecticut, though it remains widespread across much of North, Central, and South America.
Eacles imperialis nobilis
Texas Imperial Moth
Eacles imperialis nobilis is a variety of the Imperial moth, commonly known as the Texas Imperial Moth. As a member of the giant silk moth family Saturniidae, it is a large, nocturnal species with vestigial adult mouthparts and larvae that feed on diverse woody vegetation. The variety designation suggests geographic differentiation within the broader Eacles imperialis complex, which ranges from Canada to Argentina. Like other Imperial moth populations, this variety faces threats from light pollution, habitat destruction, pesticides, and introduced parasitoid flies.
Eacles imperialis pini
Imperial moth (pini subspecies), pine-feeding Imperial moth
Eacles imperialis pini is a subspecies of the Imperial moth, a giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. This subspecies is notable for its association with pine and other coniferous trees as larval hosts, distinguishing it from nominate populations that feed primarily on deciduous trees. Adults are large, visually striking moths with yellow and purple-brown patterning. The subspecies occurs in North America, with documented populations on Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts, where it has persisted while other Imperial moth populations in New England have declined or been extirpated.
Eacles oslari
Oslar's eacles, Oslar's Imperial Moth
Eacles oslari is a large silk moth in the family Saturniidae, native to the Sky Islands region of southeastern Arizona and adjacent northern Mexico. Adults display variable wing coloration ranging from yellow to purple-brown. The species was described by Walter Rothschild in 1907 and named after Ernest J. Oslar, the first entomology curator of the Colorado Museum of Natural History. Adults are active during the summer monsoon season and are known to be vulnerable to bat predation.
Eupackardia
Eupackardia is a monotypic moth genus in the family Saturniidae, containing a single species, Eupackardia calleta (the calleta silkmoth). The genus was erected by Theodore Dru Alison Cockerell in 1912. The sole species is notable for its striking black-and-white wing pattern with red thoracic markings, and its caterpillars possess bright aposematic coloration with chemical defenses.
Eupackardia calleta
Calleta Silkmoth, Ocotillo Silkmoth
Eupackardia calleta, the Calleta silkmoth, is a distinctive Saturniidae species and the sole member of its genus. Found in the southwestern United States and Mexico, this moth is strongly associated with ocotillo (Fouquieria splendens), which serves as its primary larval host. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The species is notable for its striking appearance and restricted distribution tied to desert and semi-arid habitats.
Hemileuca
sheep moth, buck moth
Hemileuca n-sp is an undescribed species of sheep moth or buck moth in the family Saturniidae. The genus Hemileuca comprises 24 recognized species in North America, with additional cryptic diversity likely to be resolved through ongoing DNA studies. These moths are diurnal, fast-flying, and often brightly colored, leading to frequent misidentification as butterflies. Males are subject to fatal attraction by Argiope spiders, which mimic female moth pheromones to lure prey. The genus exhibits substantial geographic variation in coloration and morphology, with some species ranging from nearly white to nearly black depending on locality.
Hemileuca
Sheepmoths, Buck Moths
Hemileuca is a genus of North American saturniid moths comprising approximately 32 recognized species. These moths are notable for their diurnal activity, rapid and erratic flight, and highly variable coloration ranging from muted grays and browns to bright yellows, oranges, and reds. The genus is adapted to hot, dry habitats including deserts, chaparral, and mountain regions, with life history traits synchronized to avoid harsh summer conditions. Caterpillars possess urticating spines that deliver painful stings to humans.
Hemileuca burnsi
Burns' buckmoth
Hemileuca burnsi is a species of buck moth in the family Saturniidae, commonly known as Burns' buckmoth. It is native to North America. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7737. As a member of the genus Hemileuca, it belongs to a group of day-flying moths whose caterpillars possess urticating (stinging) spines.
Hemileuca chinatiensis
chinati sheepmoth, Chinati buck moth
Hemileuca chinatiensis, commonly known as the chinati sheepmoth or Chinati buck moth, is a species of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. The species was described by Tinkham in 1943 and is native to North America. It belongs to the genus Hemileuca, which comprises 24 species in North America, commonly referred to as buck moths or sheep moths. These moths are diurnal and often mistaken for butterflies due to their bright coloration.
Hemileuca eglanterina shastaensis
Mount Shasta Sheep Moth
Hemileuca eglanterina shastaensis is a subspecies of sheep moth in the family Saturniidae, endemic to the Mount Shasta region of northern California. As a member of the Hemileuca genus, it is a day-flying moth with reduced mouthparts that does not feed as an adult. The subspecies exhibits the characteristic orange and black coloration typical of H. eglanterina, though with geographic variation associated with its isolated mountain habitat. Like other buck moths, its larvae possess urticating spines that can deliver painful stings.
Hemileuca electra
electra buckmoth
Hemileuca electra, the electra buckmoth, is a species of buck moth in the family Saturniidae. It is found in Central America and North America. The species was described by W. G. Wright in 1884. Three subspecies are recognized: H. e. clio, H. e. electra, and H. e. mojavensis. Like other Hemileuca species, it is a day-flying moth with larvae that possess urticating spines.
Hemileuca electra mojavensis
Hemileuca electra mojavensis is a subspecies of buck moth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Tuskes & McElfresh in 1993. As a member of the Hemileucinae subfamily, its larvae bear venomous spines characteristic of this group. The subspecies is associated with the Mojave Desert region and exhibits geographic variation typical of the Hemileuca electra species complex.
Hemileuca griffini
Griffin's Sheepmoth, Canadian Fleabane Moth
Hemileuca griffini is a day-flying silk moth in the family Saturniidae, described by Tuskes in 1978. The species occurs in North America and is one of approximately 24 species in the genus Hemileuca, commonly known as buck moths or sheep moths. Like other members of its genus, it is likely characterized by striking coloration and urticating (stinging) caterpillars that feed on woody plants. The Hodges number for this species is 7740.
Hemileuca hera
Sagebrush Sheep Moth, Hera Buckmoth
Hemileuca hera is a large, day-flying Saturniid moth (buck moth) native to western North America. First described by Thaddeus William Harris in 1841, this species exhibits striking geographic color variation ranging from nearly white to nearly black depending on locale. Adults are diurnal, lack functional feeding mouthparts, and do not feed. The species comprises two recognized subspecies: H. h. hera (Great Basin) and H. h. marcata (Southern Oregon). Larvae feed on sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata, A. tripartita) and other plants including Lupinus and Eriogonum.
Hemileuca hualapai
Hualapai Buckmoth
Hemileuca hualapai, the Hualapai buckmoth, is a species of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. It is native to Central America and North America. The species was described by Neumoegen in 1883 and is assigned MONA/Hodges number 7728. As a member of the genus Hemileuca, it shares characteristics with other buckmoths including diurnal flight activity and caterpillars with urticating spines.
Hemileuca juno
Juno buck moth, Juno buckmoth
Hemileuca juno is a saturniid moth in the subfamily Hemileucinae, commonly known as the Juno buck moth. First described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1872, this species occurs in Central and North America. Like other members of the genus Hemileuca, it is a day-flying moth with larvae that possess urticating spines capable of delivering painful stings. The species is assigned Hodges number 7735.
Hemileuca magnifica
Magnificent Buck Moth
Hemileuca magnifica is a species of buck moth in the family Saturniidae, described by Rotger in 1948. Like other members of the genus Hemileuca, it is a day-flying moth with adults that do not feed. The species belongs to a genus known for caterpillars with urticating (stinging) spines that feed on woody plants, particularly oaks. Very little specific information has been published about this particular species compared to better-known congeners such as H. eglanterina and H. nevadensis.
Hemileuca maia
buck moth
Hemileuca maia, commonly known as the buck moth, is a saturniid moth native to eastern North America. The species has expanded its range northward in recent decades. Adults are diurnal and do not feed. Larvae feed gregariously on oak foliage and possess urticating spines capable of causing painful reactions in humans and animals. The species has one generation per year, with eggs overwintering on host twigs. Recent taxonomic research has clarified the complex evolutionary relationships within the H. maia-nevadensis species complex, elevating several previously synonymized populations to species status.
Hemileuca neumoegeni
Neumoegen's Buckmoth
Hemileuca neumoegeni is a day-flying buck moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults are smaller than typical giant silkmoths and do not feed, relying on fat reserves accumulated during larval development. The species is native to North America and shares the genus with other buck moths known for urticating caterpillars that feed on oaks.
Hemileuca nuttalli
Nuttall's Sheep Moth, Nuttall's Buck Moth
Hemileuca nuttalli, or Nuttall's sheep moth, is a medium-sized saturniid moth native to western North America. It is one of approximately 24 species in the genus Hemileuca, commonly known as buck moths or sheep moths. The species exhibits distinctive yellow-orange and black wing patterning and has urticating larvae that feed on woody shrubs. Adults are diurnal and do not feed. In behavioral studies, male H. nuttalli showed no attraction to Argiope aurantia spider pheromone lures, unlike some closely related species, suggesting potential predator-prey coevolutionary dynamics.
Hemileuca oliviae
Range Caterpillar, Range Caterpillar Moth
Hemileuca oliviae, the range caterpillar, is a day-flying saturniid moth native to grasslands of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. The species is notable for periodic population outbreaks that can cause significant damage to rangeland vegetation, impacting forage availability for livestock. Its distribution is restricted to open grassland habitats due to predation pressure from woodland rodents on eggs and pupae. The moth has been studied extensively for its ecological interactions, including host plant relationships, water physiology, and natural enemy complexes.
pestrangelandgrasslandoutbreakrodent-predationparasitoid-hostday-flying-mothSaturniidaeHemileucasouthwestern-USChihuahuaNew-Mexicolivestock-forage-competitionintegrated-pest-managementAnastatus-semiflaviduscondensed-tannin-responsewater-physiologyPeromyscus-trueipinyon-mouse-predationpopulation-cyclesMONA-number-7729Hodges-number-7729Hemileuca peigleri
Texas buck moth
Hemileuca peigleri, the Texas buck moth, is a day-flying saturniid moth endemic to central Texas. Adults are short-lived and do not feed, relying on fat reserves accumulated during larval development. The species is closely associated with oak habitats, where larvae feed on several oak species. Taxonomic status has been debated, with some authorities treating it as a subspecies of Hemileuca maia, though it is currently recognized as a distinct species.
Hemileuca slosseri
Slosser's buckmoth, nit-grass moth
Hemileuca slosseri is a species of buck moth in the family Saturniidae, described in 1989 by Richard S. Peigler and Stephen E. Stone. It is found in North America, particularly in the southwestern United States including New Mexico and adjacent Oklahoma. The species is associated with oak habitats, with larvae feeding on Havard shin-oak (Quercus havardii). Like other Hemileuca species, it is diurnal and possesses urticating (stinging) spines as larvae.
Hemileuca stonei
Stone's buckmoth, pangola-grass moth
Hemileuca stonei is a day-flying buck moth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Claude Lemaire in 1993. The species occurs in Central and North America and is one of approximately 24 Hemileuca species in North America. Like other members of its genus, it likely has urticating (stinging) caterpillars that feed on specific host plants. The species is relatively poorly documented compared to some congeners.
Hemileucinae
Buck and Io Moths
Hemileucinae is a subfamily of Saturniidae containing approximately 630 species endemic to North and South America. The subfamily is characterized by larvae bearing venomous urticating spines or setae, with some species capable of causing severe medical reactions in humans. Notable genera include Lonomia, whose caterpillars can cause life-threatening envenomation, and Automeris, known for their striking eyespot patterns. Adults are typically medium to large moths with reduced or non-functional mouthparts.
Hyalophora
Giant Silk Moths, Silkmoths
Hyalophora is a genus of giant silk moths in the family Saturniidae, containing some of the largest and most visually striking moths in North America. The genus includes the cecropia moth (H. cecropia), North America's largest native moth, along with several other notable species such as the Columbia silkmoth and Glover's silkmoth. Adults are characterized by their large size, broad wings with distinctive eyespot patterns, and reduced mouthparts—they do not feed. Larvae are equally impressive, with bright coloration and prominent tubercles or spines. The genus was established by James Duncan and John O. Westwood in 1841.
Hyalophora cecropia
Cecropia moth, Cecropia silkmoth, Robin moth
Hyalophora cecropia, the cecropia moth, is North America's largest native moth, with females documented at wingspans of 130-180 mm (5-7 inches). A member of the Saturniidae family (giant silk moths), this univoltine species produces one generation per year. Adults lack functional mouthparts and survive approximately two weeks solely on stored fat reserves. The species has declined in parts of New England due to parasitism by the introduced tachinid fly Compsilura concinnata, which was originally brought to North America for gypsy moth control.
Hyalophora columbia columbia
Columbia Silk Moth
The Columbia Silk Moth is a subspecies of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults are among the largest North American moths. Larvae typically feed on larch, though intergrade populations show dietary flexibility. The subspecies occurs in boreal and north-temperate regions, with documented populations in Wisconsin and intergrade zones in northwestern Ontario. Adult flight peaks in early June. Natural hybridization with related species occurs rarely despite sympatric overlap.
Hyalophora euryalus euryalus
Ceanothus silk moth, Western cecropia moth
Hyalophora euryalus euryalus is a subspecies of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae, native to western North America. Adults are among the largest moths in the region, with wingspans reaching up to 15 centimeters. The subspecies is distinguished by its reddish-brown wing coloration with prominent eyespots and white crescent markings. Like other Hyalophora species, adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed, living only long enough to mate and reproduce. Larvae are notable for their large size, colorful tubercles, and urticating spines.
Hyalophora gloveri
Glover's silkmoth
Hyalophora gloveri is a large silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, first described by Strecker in 1872. The species occurs across western North America from the Rocky Mountains through the northern Great Plains and Canadian prairie provinces. Its taxonomic status remains debated; several authorities treat it as a subspecies of Hyalophora columbia. The species exhibits two recognized subspecies: H. g. gloveri and H. g. nokomis. Adults have a wingspan of approximately 100 mm.
Lanugo cestus
Lanugo cestus is a species of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. It is native to the Neotropical region and exhibits the large size and reduced mouthparts characteristic of many saturniid moths. Adults are primarily nocturnal and do not feed. The species has received limited scientific study, and many aspects of its biology remain undocumented.
Phasmophaga
Phasmophaga is a genus of tachinid flies established by Townsend in 1909. The genus comprises five described species distributed in the Americas. At least one species, P. antennalis, has been documented as a parasitoid of saturniid moth caterpillars. The genus belongs to the tribe Blondeliini within the subfamily Exoristinae.
Rothschildia
Rothschildia is a genus of giant silkmoths in the family Saturniidae, first described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1896. The genus contains approximately 30 described species distributed from the southern United States through Mexico and Central America to Argentina. Adults are characterized by large size, reduced or vestigial mouthparts, and often striking wing patterns including transparent "windows" devoid of scales. Several species have documented cultural significance for indigenous peoples, particularly the use of cocoons in ceremonial regalia.
Rothschildia lebeau
Lebeau's Silk Moth, Forbes Moth
Rothschildia lebeau is a giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, distributed from the Lower Rio Grande Valley through eastern Mexico to Brazil. Adults are short-lived and do not feed, relying on fat reserves accumulated during larval development. The species exhibits a life history tradeoff between larval survival and adult body size based on host plant quality, with larger males showing higher mating success.
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lebeau forbesi
Forbes' Silk Moth, Forbes Moth
Rothschildia lebeau forbesi, commonly known as Forbes' Silk Moth, is a subspecies of giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. It ranges from the Lower Rio Grande Valley through eastern Mexico to Brazil. Adults are frequently mistaken for the Atlas Moth due to distinctive transparent "windows" in their wings that lack scales. Like other giant silkmoths, adults do not feed and live only a few days, surviving on fat reserves accumulated during the larval stage.
Samia cynthia
ailanthus silkmoth, eri silkmoth
Samia cynthia is a large saturniid moth used for silk production, though less domesticated than Bombyx mori. Adults have wingspans of 113–125 mm with distinctive quarter-moon shaped spots on both wing surfaces, whitish and yellow stripes on a brown background, and eyespots on the outer forewings. The species is native to East Asia and has been introduced to multiple continents, often escaping from cultivation. The subspecies S. c. ricini, known as the eri silkmoth, feeds on castor bean and produces durable eri silk that must be spun rather than reeled.
Syssphinx bicolor
honey locust moth
Syssphinx bicolor, commonly known as the honey locust moth, is a North American saturniid moth with variable wing coloration ranging from grayish to yellow, orange, or dark reddish brown. The species exhibits three annual broods with adults of different color morphs appearing sequentially—grayish first, then yellow to orange-brown, and finally darker with more spotting. Larvae feed on honey locust and Kentucky coffee tree, with distinctive color changes between gregarious young stages and solitary older instars.
Syssphinx blanchardi
Syssphinx blanchardi is a species of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae, described by Ferguson in 1971. The species belongs to a genus of smaller saturniids found in southwestern North America and Mexico. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light sources. Larvae feed on woody leguminous plants and pupate underground. The species is part of a taxonomically complex group that has historically been placed in the genus Sphingicampa.
Syssphinx montana
Montana Silkmoth
Syssphinx montana is a silkmoth in the family Saturniidae. Adults have a wingspan of 62–82 mm, with males smaller than females. The species is found in Mexico and rarely in southeastern Arizona. Adults are active from mid-July to early August and do not feed. Larvae feed on several leguminous host plants.
Syssphinx raspa
Raspa Small Silkmoth
Syssphinx raspa is a small silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, native to North and Middle America. It is closely related to Hubbard's Silkmoth (Syssphinx hubbardi), with which it shares similar biology and appearance. The species has a wingspan of approximately 56-76 mm. Adults are primarily gray with bright pink hindwings that are exposed when startled. Like other Syssphinx species, the caterpillars feed on leguminous host plants and pupate underground.