imperial moth
Quick Summary
The imperial moth (Eacles imperialis) is a large North American saturniid moth. It is characterized by yellow wings marked with reddish-brown spots and patches. These moths belong to the subfamily Ceratocampinae, which are known for being large and brightly colored.12
Adult imperial moths have stout, hairy bodies and broad wings. Like other saturniids, they have reduced mouthparts and many do not feed as adults. The males possess feathery antennae used to detect female pheromones. The larvae, or caterpillars, are typically green with sparse white hairs, yellow horns, and a brown head. They primarily feed on tree foliage, such as walnut, hickory, and persimmon leaves. The imperial moth is also referred to as a royal moth, a term for various large, handsome moths in the Citheronia genus and related groups.23
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