Cynthia Moth (Samia cynthia)

Some would question my choice to call the Cynthia moth a North American saturniidae. It originates from China, but was brought to the United States to establish a silk industry. The business failed, but a number of moths escaped or were released and have established themselves in the northeast, particularly in the New York city area. Its larva feeds on another Chinese import, Ailanthus (also know as the "Tree of Heaven"), which is often found in unkept lots in urban settings.

As with all Saturniidae moths, the Cynthia does all its eating in the larva stage. The adult moth has no mouth and cannot eat.

Click on any of the thumbnails to get a larger picture.

	These are pictures of first and second instar cynthia larva. like many saturniidae caterpillars, they are gregarious in early instars.
	This is a picture of two fourth instar Cynthia caterpillars (the second one is mostly hidden behind a leaf). They are shown feeding on Ailanthus, the most common host plant for these larva.
	This is a nice picture of a 5th instar from Mark Lasko. It really shows the fine powder that covers the larva's skin, especially the back. The skin itself is a light blue, but shortly after molting the larva develops a thick white powder that adheres to the skin.
	This is a female adult cynthia. It is similar to the ricini in coloration, but lacks the ricini's purple bands and is a bit larger than the ricini.