Columbia Silk-Moth | Hyalophora columbia COCOONS

Hyalophora columbia, commonly known as the Columbia Silkmoth, is a large, striking moth in the family Saturniidae. Native to North America, it inhabits boreal forests and mixed woodlands, particularly in areas where its larval host plants are abundant. This species is closely related to - and can hybridise with - the Cecropia Moth (Hyalophora cecropia) but has distinct ecological preferences and morphological traits.

The Columbia Silkmoth has a wingspan ranging from 10 to 15cm. Its wings are burgundy or reddish-brown with intricate white, black, and pinkish markings. The most notable feature is the crescent-shaped eyespots on the forewings, which are bordered by lighter-colored bands. These markings serve to deter predators by mimicking larger eyes. The hindwings are similarly patterned, but the overall coloration is slightly darker, helping the moth blend into tree bark and foliage.

Hyalophora columbia is found in northern parts of the United States and Canada, with populations extending into the northeastern U.S., the Rocky Mountains, and the northern Great Plains. Its habitat includes boreal forests, wetlands, and areas with abundant shrubs and trees such as alder (Alnus), birch (Betula), and larch (Larix).

The larvae are pale green-blue with colourful tubercles. After completing several instars, the caterpillars spin large silken cocoons attached to branches or twigs, where they overwinter as pupae.

Adults emerge in late spring or early summer but do not feed, as they lack functional mouthparts. Their primary purpose is reproduction, and their lifespan as adults is short, lasting only 1–2 weeks.

Difficulty - Cocoons easy (1/10); caterpillars moderately challenging (6/10)

Host plants - Birch; Cherry; Willow; Ceanothus; Plum; Alder; Larch; Sweet Gum.

Conditions - Room temperature or outdoors in airy conditions.

Lifecycle - Single brood with cocoons overwintering.