224 INSECTS 
Silkworm Moths. — Our largest and most beautiful moths 
are the giant silkworm moths, which are closely related to 
the Chinese species that produces silk. From the study of 
these native moths we can get a good idea of the habits of 
the domesticated varieties that are employed in silk-produc- 
ing countries. 
We have various species of these silkworm moths, the 
largest and handsomest being the cecropia and the poly- 
THe CrecropiaA Motu 
phemus, one of which is shown in our picture. They measure 
five or six inches from tip to tip of wing. The general color 
of the polyphemus is yellowish brown, and of the cecropia 
a darker or dusky brown; both of them are beautifully 
marked with other colors. The body is thick and plump 
and quite hairy, and their feelers have the form of feathers. 
The caterpillars may be found feeding upon the foliage 
