Ceanothus Silkmoths look a lot like Cecropia and Columbia Silkmoths. A large amount of variation exists in color and pattern of this species, so it is difficult to identify even among its own kind. This species even has subspecies that reflect hybridization. Besides its huge wingspan, other attractive features on this moth include eyespots at the wing tips, a wide band of color along the edge of the wings that can have shades of purple and pink in it, and a bright white mark on the hindwing that resembles a long, pointy comma. The bulbous body has orange and white stripes and the antennae are comb-like.
Caterpillars eat leaves from a wide range of trees like alder, birch, cherry, gooseberry, manzanita, maple, serviceberry, and willow. Because their diet is varied, this moth and its larvae can be found in a variety of habitats like woodlands and chaparral, as well as coastal areas. Look for adults when weather begins to warm and for caterpillars a few months after that.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Butterfly and Moth Anatomy
1
Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.
3
Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.
5
Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.
6
Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.
NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.
Colors: brown; white; orange; purple; pink; maroon; black
