Columbia Silk Moth
Common NameColumbia Silk Moth
Scientific NameHyalophora columbia
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)85
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, grey, black, white
HabitatConiferous forests, mixed woodlands, bogs, swamps
Geographic RangeNorthern North America (Canada and northern US)
Host PlantsLarix laricina, Picea, Pinus, Abies
Flight PeriodLate May to early July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green and feed primarily on larch needles, pupating in a silken cocoon attached to host plants, often overwintering as pupae. Adults emerge in late spring/early summer and do not feed.
Identification TipsKey features include its reddish-brown and grey coloration, prominent eyespots, and distinct white and black banding, especially the relatively narrow white bands compared to similar *Hyalophora* species. Its association with larch is also a strong clue.
Description
This large, robust moth has reddish-brown and grey wings adorned with prominent black and white eyespots on all four wings, and distinct white and black banding. Its body is densely hairy and reddish-brown.
