Ceanothus Silk Moth (Hyalophora euryalus) on Apr 17, 2016
Originally reported as Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar asiatica)
Submitter does not have a specimen
Description of specimen
Very large moth....like the size of a small bat. I have a video of it.... you can call me and I can email it. I also attached a photo.
Commentary
Expert Reviewer
Wyatt Williams, Ph.D.
Wyatt Williams, Ph.D.
Invasive Species Specialist
Oregon Department of Forestry
Private Forests Division
2600 State St. Bldg. D
Salem, OR 97310-0340
Office: 503-945-7472
wyatt.williams@oregon.gov
What you have found is the beautiful Ceanothus silk moth, one of the largest moths in the Pacific Northwest. It is a native species and not considered a pest. The caterpillars, which are also quite beautiful, feed on plants in a wide range of botanical families (Rhamaceae is the most common). Management recommendations are to admire its beauty and let it be free. To learn more about other large moths in the PNW, check out:
http://pnwmoths.biol.wwu.edu/browse/family-saturniidae/subfamily-saturniinae/hyalophora/hyalophora-euryalus/
Thank you for your submission to the Hotline.
Regards,
Wyatt Williams
Wyatt Williams
April 19, 2016, 2:03 a.m.