Calleta Silkmoth
Common NameCalleta Silkmoth
Scientific NameEupackardia calleta
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)95
Primary Colorsblack, orange, cream, blue
HabitatDeserts, arid scrublands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and Mexico
Host PlantsCondalia, Acacia, Fouquieria splendens, Prosopis
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are spiny and brightly colored, feeding on various desert shrubs. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often attached to host plants or debris.
Identification TipsLook for the large size, dark wings, and the distinctive eyespots on the forewings with blue-black centers and orange-cream rings. The broad cream and orange bands on the hindwings are also key identifiers.
Description
A large, robust silkmoth with velvety black wings featuring prominent eyespots on the forewings and distinct cream, orange, and dark brown bands on both forewings and hindwings.
