Cecropia Moth

This week I had an unusual insect cocoon brought in for identification. The homeowner found the cocoon in their tree and they had never seen anything like it before. The cocoon, much like the one in the picture to the right, had the remains of the caterpillar in it that had been parasitized by another insect. The cocoon is approximately 2 inches long, tan in color and appears to be made of a silk like material. The full-grown moth is one of the most spectacular moths that we have in the Kansas region. The moths have a reddish body with huge (5-7”) black to brown wings that have bands of white, red and tan. They are the largest moth found in the United States. The moths are often attracted to street and porch lights which is where most people will see them. Caterpillars feed on hardwood tree leaves throughout the summer but are rarely a pest of any significance.

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu