Insects nocturnal

Tulip-tree Silkmoth

Callosamia angulifera

A nocturnal giant of the Eastern forests, the Tulip-tree Silkmoth is a master of camouflage and a spectacular find for any backyard explorer. With its velvety wings and striking angular patterns, it represents the hidden beauty of the night.

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Quick Identification

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Size

Wingspan of 8–11 cm (3.1–4.3 inches)

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Colors

Sexual dimorphism present; males are deep charcoal or dark brown, while females are a lighter reddish-brown or cinnamon color. Both feature distinct yellowish-white angular spots.

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Key Features

Distinctive 'V' or triangular shaped white spots in the center of the wings
Prominent eyespots near the apical tips of the forewings
Wavy yellowish or cream-colored border along the wing margins
Large, feathery antennae, especially broad in males

When You’ll See Them

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Activity pattern nocturnal

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Peak hours 10:00 PM – 2:00 AM

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Season June–August

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Diet Adults do not eat; they lack functional mouthparts. Larvae (caterpillars) feed primarily on the leaves of the Tulip-tree (Liriodendron tulipifera), and occasionally on Magnolia or Sassafras.

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Habitat Deciduous forests, wooded residential areas, and suburban parks where Tulip-trees are prevalent.

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Behavior

The Tulip-tree Silkmoth is a member of the giant silkmoth family, known for its impressive size and lack of functional mouthparts as an adult. Because they cannot eat, their adult life is fleeting, lasting only about a week, during which their sole purpose is to find a mate and reproduce. They spend their days resting motionless on tree trunks or hidden among foliage, relying on their sophisticated camouflage to avoid predators like birds.

Unlike their close relative, the Promethea moth, which flies during the late afternoon, Tulip-tree Silkmoth males are strictly nocturnal. They use their large, sensitive antennae to detect pheromones released by females from miles away. When they aren't seeking mates, they are frequently drawn to artificial light sources in suburban backyards, where they may be found resting on walls or screens the following morning.

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Camera Tips

To capture high-quality images of the Tulip-tree Silkmoth, the most effective strategy is to set up a 'light trap' within view of your camera. Use a white bedsheet hung vertically and illuminate it with a UV (blacklight) or a mercury vapor bulb. Position your AI-powered camera on a tripod approximately 3 to 5 feet away from the sheet, angled slightly upward. This setup mimics the way researchers study moths and will draw the moths directly into your camera's field of view.

Because these moths are large and have a rhythmic, fluttering flight pattern, use a camera setting with a fast trigger speed or, ideally, set it to record short 10-second video clips. The video format is particularly helpful for capturing the iridescent scales and the way the moth vibrates its wings to warm up before flight. If your camera allows for macro adjustments, set the focus for a closer range, as these moths often land and remain still on surfaces for long periods.

Placement is key. If you have a Tulip-tree in your yard, place your camera and light setup near the edge of the tree's canopy. In the southern parts of their range, you may get two 'peaks' of activity—one in late spring and another in mid-summer—so keep your batteries charged during these windows. Avoid high-wind nights, as these heavy-bodied moths prefer to fly when the air is still and humid.

Similar Species

Species that look similar or are commonly confused with Tulip-tree Silkmoth.

Promethea Silkmoth

Males are much darker (almost black) and lack the large angular white spots in the center of the wings.

Polyphemus Moth

Much larger and tan-colored, featuring massive blue and yellow eyespots on the hindwings rather than angular white spots.

Cecropia Moth

The largest moth in North America, it has red body segments and crescent-shaped white marks rather than angular ones.

Frequently Asked Questions

Tulip-tree Silkmoths are strictly nocturnal. They are most active during the deep night, typically between 10:00 PM and 2:00 AM, unlike some other silkmoths that fly during the day or at dusk.

The best way to attract them is by planting their host plant, the Tulip-tree (Liriodendron tulipifera). Additionally, using UV lights or blacklights at night will attract adults that are flying in the area.

As adults, they do not eat at all; they don't even have digestive systems! They live off the energy stored from when they were caterpillars. The caterpillars eat the leaves of Tulip-trees, Magnolias, and Sassafras.

Yes, they are quite common in suburban areas throughout the Eastern United States, provided there are mature Tulip-trees or Magnolia trees nearby to support their caterpillars.

While they look similar, the Tulip-tree Silkmoth is generally larger. The males are brown/charcoal rather than the Promethea's solid black, and the Tulip-tree moth has much larger, more distinct angular white 'windows' in the center of its wings.

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