Callosamia promethea

(Drury, 1773)
Promethea Silkmoth

Sort #: 1721 | P #: 890079 | MPG #: 7764 | PFG Page #: 254
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Larval feeding type: Feeds externally on leaves
Larval substrate: Deciduous trees and shrubs, incl. Sassafras albidum* (Sassafras), Cephalanthus occidentalis* (Common Buttonbush), Malus (Apple), Fraxinus (Ash), Tilia (Basswood), Betula (Birch), Prunus serotina* (Black Cherry), Acer (Maple), Lindera benzoin (Northern Spicebush), Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum), Liriodendron* (Tulip Tree)
Phenology: Adult: 4/25 to 8/13 (188 records)

Comment: Phenogram suggests two overlapping generations, however, this picture may be blurred somewhat due to captive reared material being reported without the correct annotation. Also, the release of captive bred material could also falsify the picture.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Widespread, very common
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1833
Last Year Reported: 2026

Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 526