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, had the remains of the caterpillar in it that another insect had parasitized. The cocoon is approximately 2 inches long, tan, and made of a silk-like material. The full-grown moth is one of the most spectacular moths in the Kansas region. The moths have reddish bodies with huge (5-7”) black to brown wings with white, red, and tan bands. They are the largest moth found in the United States. The moths are often attracted to street and porch lights, 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