I've never seen this moth in Portland before, what is it? Where is it from? Is it invasive? Has it's presence here been reported previously?

Reporter
July 27, 2008, 5:09 a.m.

Hi Elizabeth, I sent the picture of your moth onto the OSU insect lab for identification. I'll let you know when I hear something back.

Lisa DeBruyckere
July 29, 2008, 5:53 a.m.

Jim Young from the OSU insect lab says, "The Moth is Antheraea polyphemus, the Polyphemus Moth. It is the PNW’s largest silk moth and is native. The caterpillars of this moth are very large (4-5” long and ½” in diameter) and feed on Oak and occasionally other deciduous trees/shrubs."

Lisa DeBruyckere
July 29, 2008, 6:01 a.m.