MAY/JUNE: Attacus lorquini EGGS
Host plants: Privet, Lilac, Ailanthus, Sweetgum, Willow. Multiple others reported.
Difficulty: Caterpillars can be difficult (6/10); cocoons are very easy to hatch (1/10)
Temperature: Room temp. or warmer; cocoons emerge sooner with warmth
Lifecycle: Continually brooded; cocoons can become dormant
The Philippine Atlas Moth is native to the islands of the Philippines, as suggested by its name. Cocoons are very easy to look after at home, doing very well at room temperature. Spray them twice daily to induce emergence as humidity is essential for healthy emergence and simulates favourable conditions when the moths would naturally emerge. Caterpillars can be a challenge but are certainly worth the effort! They eat many different plants in the wild, but some great ones for captive rearing include: Ailanthus, Lilac, Privet, Willow, Sweetgum, Ash, Custard Apple, Cherry Laurel, Portugal Laurel, Cherry (wild and domestic varieties), Citrus, and more.