Squeaking Silkmoth
Common NameSqueaking Silkmoth
Scientific NameAntheraea polyphemus
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)125
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, tan, black, blue
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards, suburban areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (Canada, United States, Mexico)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm, rose, fruit trees
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large green caterpillars that feed on various deciduous trees. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often wrapped in leaves, and adults emerge without functional mouthparts, living only to reproduce.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, fuzzy yellow-brown body, and especially the prominent, large, blue and black eyespot on each hindwing, which gives it its scientific name (Polyphemus, the cyclops).
Description
A large, fuzzy-bodied moth with yellowish-brown wings, featuring prominent, large, black and blue eyespots on the hindwings and smaller, less distinct eyespots on the forewings, along with wavy brown lines.
