Cecrops Eyed Silkmoth
Common NameCecrops Eyed Silkmoth
Scientific NameAutomeris cecrops
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorstan, yellow, black, pink
HabitatOpen woodlands, forest edges, scrublands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Maryland to Florida, west to Texas), Central America, and parts of South America
Host Plantsoak, willow, hackberry, sumac, mesquite
Flight PeriodApril to October (multivoltine in warmer regions)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs laid on host plants, spiny larvae feed on leaves, pupation occurs in a loose cocoon in leaf litter, emerging as an adult moth.
Identification TipsKey features are the plain tan/brown forewings and the prominent yellow hindwings, each with a large, black-centered eyespot ringed with white and a broad pinkish-red band.
Description
A medium-sized silkmoth with tan to reddish-brown forewings and striking yellow hindwings, each featuring a large, prominent black and white eyespot encircled by pink.
