Samia cynthia
(Drury, 1773)
Ailanthus Silkmoth
Sort #: 1649 | P3 #: 890074 | MPG #: 7759
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Larval feeding type: Feeds externally
Larval substrate: Ailanthus (Tree of Heaven), but also many other trees and shrubs
Phenology: Adult: 5/31 (1 record)
Comment: Large numbers have been released into the wild in the past, but it is unlikely there are any wild-living populations today.
Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, rare
Status in N. America: Introduced
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1890
Last Year Reported: 1975
Distribution by County: Franklin, Middlesex, Nantucket
Number of Records: 3