Imperial Moth
Common NameImperial Moth
Scientific NameEacles imperialis
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyCeratocampinae
Wingspan (mm)120
Primary Colorsyellow, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, Central America
Host Plantsoak, maple, pine, sweetgum, sassafras, birch
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, then pupate in the soil, overwintering as pupae before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, striking yellow and reddish-brown coloration, and the prominent dark eyespots on all four wings, which distinguish it from other large moths.
Description
A large, robust moth characterized by its bright yellow wings heavily mottled and banded with reddish-brown, featuring distinct dark eyespots on both forewings and hindwings.
