Wildlife officials in the state say an atlas moth, one of the largest moths in the world, has been found in the U.S. for the first time, and they're asking bug-watchers to keep an eye out for more.

The atlas moth, one of the world's largest moths, was spotted in Washington state last month, marking the first time the insect is believed to be found in the United States.

The atlas moth found on a garage in Bellvue, Washington, as compared to a man's hand. WSDA Atlas moths are native to Southeast Asia and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical rainforests.

The atlas moth found on a garage in Bellvue, Washington, as compared to a man’s hand. (WSDA) Atlas moths are native to Southeast Asia and are primarily found in tropical and subtropical rainforests.

Moth caterpillars produce silk, and the cocoons they leave behind are sometimes used as purses, according to the Museum. The atlas moth is a federally quarantined pest in the U.S., according to ...

It’s one of the largest moths in the world and it was detected in the United States for the first time. Washington State environmental officials have confirmed the detection of a single atlas moth.

The atlas moth is a federally quarantined pest in the U.S., according to Washington State officials. This means it is illegal to have or sell live atlas moths, regardless of their stage in life ...

It is against the law to "obtain, harbor, rear, or sell live atlas moths whether adults, eggs, larvae, or pupae without a permit from USDA." Atlas moth. Washington State Department of Agriculture ...