Saturniidae: Giant Silk Moths

giant moths · insects · silk · lepidoptera

Massive moth family. Saturniidae includes about 2,300 different species of moths, making it one of the largest moth families on Earth. These moths are found on every continent except Antarctica.

Some of the biggest. Members of this family are among the largest moths in the world. Some species have wingspans wider than your hand is long, and a few can reach sizes as big as a small bird.

Stunning colors and patterns. Saturniidae moths are famous for their beautiful, eye-catching colors and intricate wing patterns. Many have spots that look like eyes, which can scare away predators trying to eat them.

Royal and emperor names. The family includes emperor moths and royal moths, fancy names that fit these magnificent insects. These dramatic names reflect just how impressive and regal these moths look.

Night fliers with no mouths. Adult Saturniidae moths are nocturnal, meaning they fly at night. Most of them don't eat at all as adults because they have no functional mouths, living only to find mates and lay eggs.