Observation date: May 27, 2017
Submitted by: y2kasmira
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This moth was found in our front yard as we were preparing to mow the grass. It was at rest, hugging a few blades of tall grass. At first, I took a few pictures as I pointed into the grass nearby, so that my hand was in the shot for a size reference. Next, because she (we assume) was unbothered by our close proximity, my partner placed his hand under her. She climbed onto his hand and unfurled her beautiful wings, so I quickly took several close up shots. My partner gently released her onto a tree in our yard so she wouldn't be disturbed by the lawnmower. She never seemed disturbed or agitated by contact with us. She was in the same position after we mowed, but moved on approximately an hour later. I tried to match our photos to web pics of butterflies and moths, but did not get an exact match - I thought she might be a Callosamia Angulifera, Tulip-tree silkmoth, but much more brightly colored than any of the examples I found. I posted the photos on Facebook and asked for help identifying the specific type of moth, and my (Amazing science-minded) daughter replied with photos and the corresponding identification as hyalophora cecropia. Thank you for allowing us to post this amazing creature for identification and contact!
Status: Resident
Verified by: Sue Gregoire
Verified date: May 29, 2017
Coordinator notes: Thank you for caring for her.
