Cecropia moth

Hyalophora cecropia

Adult · maleA special find

This big moth has pale crescents on all four wings. The adult moth does not eat.

Little clues

Three things to notice.

Out in the world

Around southeastern Wisconsin

Summer nights near trees.

Look closely. Leave your tiny neighbor where you found it.

A closer look

Those little pale crescents are wing markings. The big moth began life as a very different-looking caterpillar.

A special find can be hard to spot without being biologically rare. Encounters depend on season and habitat.

For curious grownups, too

Original summaries, with references for deeper reading. Field notes are being checked against the supplied research.

Make a bug slide

Front artwork is made for a 3-inch clear disc. Revised artwork still needs a physical check. Reverse QR files use the confirmed permanent website.