Which moth is considered the largest moth native to North America?

The cecropia moth is considered the largest moth native to North America.

Hyalophora cecropia is a giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. It occurs widely across Canada and the United States, where adults are recognized by broad reddish-brown wings marked with pale bands, crescent-shaped spots, and eye-like markings. Females are generally larger and heavier than males.

The caterpillar is also conspicuous. It can grow several inches long and changes color as it develops, with rows of blue, yellow, and red tubercles covered in spines. It feeds on a range of trees and shrubs rather than relying on one narrowly specialized host plant.

Adult cecropia moths do not eat. Their brief adult lives are devoted mainly to finding mates and laying eggs, using energy stored while they were caterpillars. The species is named for Cecrops, a legendary early king of Athens, following a tradition of mythological names in the giant silk moth family.