Female ex. wild cocoon collected in T.N.F.
Host: Magnolia virginiana
ecl. 21 May 1997

Searching for the cocoons is perhaps the best way to collect these moths, however, greater than half will be out of reach and often parasitized.

It's also important to mention that most sweetbay trees keep their leaves throughout the year and searching for the cocoons among the foliated hosts takes effort and the development of "search image". I also recommend wading boots or a pair of chest waders since this species is most common in mucky flood plains and lowlands where its host plant is abundant.

While looking for cocoons, there are parts of the range where you might also want to be wary of wildlife...there's the risk of wild pigs, certain snake species & gators.

NOTE: This species is subject to some seasonal variation. Typically, the Spring forms are lighter and brighter and the summer generations are usually darker and/or more washed out in appearance.

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Alabama Examples:

Lee Co.


Macon Co.