What was the Big white bug?

Question

Last night a BIG white bug repeatedly flew into my patio door. It was probably the size of a kitchen sponge and it appeared to be all white. It had two eyes and it used it wings while it walked up the door. Its wings were very large and shaped more like a butterflies than a moth. It was very scary looking and seemed to be heavy for its size (based on the thump it made every time it hit the door). Help please!!!

Answer 1

It was a dove moth

Answer 2

It was probably a Luna Moth. Luna moths are one of the biggest moths around at between 4 and 5 inches across. They are called Luna Moths because they come out during the evenings (Luna=Moon)They are usually a pale greenish white in color and appear during the night. They do appear more like a butterfly than a moth but are indeed a moth. I think they are one the most attractive moths or butterflies....I haven't seen one in years.

I included a picture of one but you can google Luna Moth to see pics.

There may be yet another option if the body was really heavy....and that is the Hummingbird Moth . They have really heavy bodies and are rather large themselves.  

The only other option if it was bigger than a Luna Moth is the Cecropia Moth. It is one of the largest moths in the North America at 5-6 inches (the Luna Moth is first or second depending on who you talk to).  Also take into account that it very well could have been a Luna Moth that had recently had damage to the wings. Or it may have just recently emerged from the chrysalis and their bodies are much fatter soon after emergence.

I posted a Cecropia Moth picture and a Hummingbird Moth picture. If it is neither of these then you  have me stumped! Keep in mind also, especially with the hummingbird moth, that there are several variations in appearance.

Hmm...well I am out of suggestions but I am very interested in knowing what it is.  If you discover what it is e-mail me....My curiosity is peaked!  Good Luck!