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Large butterfly #931971

Asked May 17, 2026, 12:46 PM EDT

We found in our yard a very large butterfly with a large body. Wondering if this is a detrimental insect. We can't find any pictures like it online

Trumbull County Ohio

Expert Response

You have found a cecropia moth (Hyalophora cecropia) moth, the largest moth in North America.  Although the moth lays may eggs and there may be many caterpillars it is not considered a landscape problem, perhaps because the caterpillars are so big that they are easy pickings for the birds.

Here's a link to more information:
https://yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu/encyclopedia/cecropia-moth

Here are some more photos of the various stages of the moth:
https://extension.umaine.edu/home-and-garden-ipm/fact-sheets/common-name-listing/cecropia-moth/

Enjoy this beauty.
Karen E Replied May 18, 2026, 2:10 PM EDT

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