Attracted to bright lights, these nocturnal Moths startle many people in the early summer. Cecropia Moths live in towns with lots of trees and lawns. Not fussy, Cecropia Moths will eat the leaves of almost any tree or shrub. Moreover, Birds, their major enemies, usually avoid large towns.
Cecropia cocoons are familiar to many people. Conspicuous in bare trees in winter, the large cocoons are strapped securely between stems or among dead leaves in the upper branches. The tough cocoons are woven with paper and silk. As a blanket, the cocoon keeps Baby Moth warm, safe, and dry during the winter.
Since the adults only live for about two weeks, Cecropia Moths protect their young in several ways. When the eggs hatch, the young feed together until They are large enough to feed on their own. The caterpillars weave tough cocoons for their change into a moth. There are many ways to protect children when you are not with them. Learn from Cecropia Moth how to give children the protection they need, when they are on their own.
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Photo of Cecropia Moth courtesy of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Va. Carper
May 6, 2008