DISTRIBUTION:

Hyalophora columbia gloveri "nokomis", (wingspan 10-11.5 cm), explained by Tuskes, Tuttle and Collins as a smaller, more brightly coloured northern phenotype of columbia gloveri rather than a distinct species or even subspecies, flies from northeastern Saskatchewan east to Flin Flon, Manitoba, and south to the northern shore of Lake Winnipegosis.

The wide white bands tend to brighten this moth's appearance.

Based on the image (below), supplied by Derek Bridgehouse, this phenotype also appears in Alberta.

Hyalophora columbia gloveri (nokomis), Alberta, courtesy of Derek Bridgehouse.

Hyalophora columbia gloveri (nokomis) male, courtesy of John Kamps.

FLIGHT TIMES AND PREFERRED FOOD PLANTS:

This moth flies in the prairie provinces from late May throughout June. Temperatures can be extremely cold and the moth is able to fly at temperatures as low as 3 degrees C.

Larvae feed on Prunus emarginata (Bitter cherry) and Salix (Willow).

Hyalophora columbia gloveri (nokomis) female, courtesy of John Kamps.

ECLOSION, SCENTING AND MATING:

Adults will pair readily in cages, and calling females successfully attract males even on very cold nights with scenting from 3:30 am till dawn.

EGGS, LARVAE, COCOONS, AND PUPAE:

It is hoped that this alphabetical listing followed by the common name of the foodplant will prove useful. The list is not exhaustive. Experimenting with closely related foodplants is worthwhile.

Elaeagnus argentia Elaeagnus commutata Prunus emarginata..... Salix exigua Shepardia canadensis

Silver berry Wolf Willow Bitter cherry Sandbar willow Canada Buffaloberry

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