description Promethea silkmoth Overview
The Promethea silkmoth (Callosamia promethea) is a large moth belonging to the family Saturniidae, native to the deciduous forests of the eastern United States. First described by Dru Drury in 1773, the species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism, with females displaying a reddish-brown coloration while males are significantly darker and almost black. As adults, they do not feed and live solely to reproduce, relying on pheromones to locate mates. Promethea caterpillars are polyphagous and commonly feed on host plants such as spicebush, sassafras, and tulip trees.
insights Ranking position
Promethea silkmoth ranks #43 of 479 in the Moth ranking, behind Lesser Death's-head Hawkmoth, ahead of Imperial moth.
help Promethea silkmoth FAQ
Why do male and female Promethea silkmoths look so different?
Male Callosamia promethea are generally dark brown to nearly black, while females are larger and reddish-brown. The difference is so pronounced that an unfamiliar observer could mistake them for separate species.
When do Promethea silkmoths fly and mate?
Females release pheromones while resting, and males use their large feathery antennae to locate them. Unlike many large moths, male Promethea silkmoths commonly fly in the late afternoon, while females are more active after dark.
What plants do Promethea silkmoth caterpillars eat?
The caterpillars use several eastern North American trees and shrubs, including spicebush, sassafras, tulip tree, and wild cherry. The exact host varies across the moth's range.
How can a Promethea silkmoth cocoon be recognized in winter?
The caterpillar wraps a leaf around its cocoon and secures the leaf stem to a twig with silk. The suspended brown leaf often remains attached after surrounding leaves have fallen, making the cocoon easier to spot.
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