Tag Archives: moth

The South American Mirror Moth: Unveiling Rothschildia speculifer

Soaring with a deliberate, fluttering flight through the tropical and subtropical forests of South America, Rothschildia speculifer (often recognized as a subspecies of Rothschildia aurota) is a magnificent giant silkmoth. As a prominent member of the Rothschildia genus, it is distinguished by its impressive size and the striking, clear, window-like patches on its wings, which lend it a unique, almost translucent beauty.

Continue reading The South American Mirror Moth: Unveiling Rothschildia speculifer

The Majestic Regal Moth: A Kaleidoscope of Color in the Forest Canopy

Emerging from the depths of eastern North American forests is one of the continent’s most spectacularly adorned insects – the regal moth, scientifically known as Citheronia regalis. With its impressive size, robust body, and a vibrant tapestry of orange, yellow, and black, this magnificent giant silk moth is a true monarch of the night. Its equally striking larva, the “hickory horned devil,” adds to its mystique, making it a fascinating subject from egg to adult.

Continue reading The Majestic Regal Moth: A Kaleidoscope of Color in the Forest Canopy

The Imperial Moth: A Majestic Presence of the Eastern Forests

Drifting through the warm summer nights of eastern North America, the imperial moth, scientifically known as Eacles imperialis, commands attention with its impressive size and regal coloration. This magnificent member of the Saturniidae family, one of our largest silk moths, showcases a stunning tapestry of yellow ochre adorned with patterns of pink, red, and sometimes purple, truly living up to its majestic name.

Continue reading The Imperial Moth: A Majestic Presence of the Eastern Forests

2024 Moth Studies in Richmond, Rhode Island (June 3, 2024)

It has been a slow start to the season as of this writing. It seemed that hatching moths have been delayed quite a bit than in past years. For example, in 2023 I had wild luna moths coming to my lights in mid-May. This year, the first one appeared late on June 2. This is also with the addition of my overwintering cocoons and scenting females.

Continue reading 2024 Moth Studies in Richmond, Rhode Island (June 3, 2024)

When It Comes to Giant Silk Moths, What Can You Find in Rhode Island?

When it comes to moths, there are none as spectacular as the giant silk moths, from the family Saturniidae. Despite Rhode Island being such a small state, we actually have five species common to this area. How many have you seen?

Continue reading When It Comes to Giant Silk Moths, What Can You Find in Rhode Island?