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Imperial Moth

Eacles imperialis

The Eacles imperialis, commonly known as the Imperial Moth, is a large and striking species found throughout the eastern United States. Females of this species are more yellow in color, while males have more purple and brown splotches on their wings. The legs of this moth are mostly covered in purple hairs, adding to their unique appearance. The wings of the Imperial Moth look like a fallen leaf, with a dark brown and tan coloration and a distinct pattern of lighter and darker patches.

A fun fact about the Imperial Moth is that it is sometimes called the “regal moth” due to its impressive size and appearance. The caterpillars of this species are known for their distinctive hump, which gives them a unique and memorable appearance. The scientific name of this species, Eacles imperialis, includes the Greek word “imperialis,” which means “of the emperor,” perhaps referring to the moth’s regal and imposing appearance.

Habitat
Deciduous, mixed, and coniferous forests
Scientific Name
Eacles imperialis
Status
Common
Wing Span
80mm to 170mm
General Size
Large
Wing Color
yellow
yellow
Marking's Color
brown
brown
purple
purple
Markings Pattern
Color Patches

Characteristics describe the physical and behavioral traits that distinguish a species from others. This section helps readers identify and differentiate between similar species, aiding in species identification and reducing the chance of misidentification.

Identifying Characteristics

  1. Purple/brown splotches on the wings

The chart displays the months of the year on the x-axis and observations of a particular species on the y-axis, indicating the time of year when each species is most commonly observed. This chart can assist moth watchers and researchers in predicting the best times and locations to observe specific moth species.

A range map is a visual representation of a species' geographical distribution, and it helps naturalists and field researchers quickly determine if a species is likely to be found in a given area, aiding in identification, conservation, and habitat management efforts.