Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1083732

Cecropia silkmoth
Hyalophora cecropia

Observation date: June 04, 2016
Submitted by: courcierwilkins
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: The moth was on the outside of the entry door to my house in Yarmouth Port, MA 02675. I initially observed it with its wings folded together. I went around to the back of the house, got my camera and photographed her for nearly half an hour at very close range (approx. 6"). Except for its wings, she never moved until after I went inside (through the rear door) and turned off the outside light. Looked through the window and saw that she was gone. Side note: I have never seen such an exquisite creature. My life partner who I had known for 49 years died last year on September 15. Two days earlier I experienced a vivid dream in which she appeared to me. We spoke. I rarely ever remember my dreams. This one was very different. She was smiling. “Where have you been? Where did you go?” “I haven’t been anywhere. I didn’t go anywhere. I’ve been right here.” “Really? Are you really here?” And I reached out and grasped her hand between mine. I felt her flesh. I am not a religious person in any formal sense, but these and other recent events have changed my life, and I regard my visit from this beautiful moth as nothing short of miraculous! Bob Wilkins
Status: Resident
Verified by: rogerdowner
Verified date: June 06, 2016
Coordinator notes: None.