With a wingspan averaging five to seven inches, this gentle giant is the largest moth native to North America. Also known as the “robin moth,” the cecropia moth belongs to the silk moth family (Saturniidae) and turns heads whenever it appears. Life begins as an egg laid on a host tree. This species isn’t too picky, but females usually choose maples for their young. Larvae spend most of their time eating and can grow to over four inches long. When it’s time to transform, the caterpillar attaches itself to twigs or bark inside a silken cocoon and pupates. Like other members of the Saturniidae family, adult moths do not eat and live for only about two weeks during the summer, focusing solely on mating and producing the next generation.