Small Emperor Moth

Saturnia pavonia

Uncommon
Small Emperor Moth — photo 1 Small Emperor Moth — photo 2 Small Emperor Moth — photo 3 Small Emperor Moth — photo 4 Small Emperor Moth — photo 5

Description

Young caterpillar blackish. Adult caterpillar dark to yellowish green with yellow/orange to pink warts ringed with black.

Information

FamilySaturniidae
Size5–7 cm
Hairinessfournie
Observation periodJune to September
DistributionThroughout France. Almost all of Europe.
ToxicityNo
RarityUncommon

Host plants

  • Bramble
  • Blackthorn
  • Heather
  • Willow
  • Hazel
  • Apple

Notes

The coloured warts are characteristic. Male moth can detect female from several kilometres away.

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