Green giant caterpillar identified as imperial moth
By Patrice Johnson
Thank you to readers who contacted SCN to identify the mystery moth caterpillar. Based on its coloration, furriness and size, we believe our giant green creature was an imperial moth caterpillar (Eacles imperialis).
The wingspan of the adult moth will reach between 3 1⁄8 and 6 7⁄8 inches with a high amount of variation within the species. Colors of the adult are always primarily yellow with red, brown, and purple blotches but can vary distinctly. Individuals from the northern regions may tend to have fewer dark markings.
Larvae feed on a variety of host plants from Coniferous and deciduous trees to shrubs. Adults do not feed. ☹
Thank you to the reader who suggested the caterpillar could be a Cecropia Moth caterpillar.
Caterpillar in question.
The Imperial Moth has evolved to look like rotting leaves. Here is a nearly identical poplar tree leaf. Source: Wikipedia.
