Citheronia splendens EGGS
Known as the Splendid Regal Moth, Citheronia splendens is eye-catching in all stages. The moths are beautifully striped with red and white, while caterpillars are dragon-like, covered with horns! The size of the caterpillar is most impressive, reaching up to 15cm in length. Though they look exotic, splendens caterpillars are not challenging to rear on suitable host plants (see below). Its range covers Mexico and some of the southern USA, inhabiting dry environments - therefore, it is best to rear caterpillars in mesh cages for the airy conditions. Pupae remain dormant for around 9-10 months, before emerging the following summer!
Difficulty - Easy (2/10)
Host plants - Sumac; Sweet Gum; Ash; Cherry; Walnut
Conditions - Requires air flow; room temperature
Lifecycle - Single brood with moths emerging mid/late summer
Known as the Splendid Regal Moth, Citheronia splendens is eye-catching in all stages. The moths are beautifully striped with red and white, while caterpillars are dragon-like, covered with horns! The size of the caterpillar is most impressive, reaching up to 15cm in length. Though they look exotic, splendens caterpillars are not challenging to rear on suitable host plants (see below). Its range covers Mexico and some of the southern USA, inhabiting dry environments - therefore, it is best to rear caterpillars in mesh cages for the airy conditions. Pupae remain dormant for around 9-10 months, before emerging the following summer!
Difficulty - Easy (2/10)
Host plants - Sumac; Sweet Gum; Ash; Cherry; Walnut
Conditions - Requires air flow; room temperature
Lifecycle - Single brood with moths emerging mid/late summer
Known as the Splendid Regal Moth, Citheronia splendens is eye-catching in all stages. The moths are beautifully striped with red and white, while caterpillars are dragon-like, covered with horns! The size of the caterpillar is most impressive, reaching up to 15cm in length. Though they look exotic, splendens caterpillars are not challenging to rear on suitable host plants (see below). Its range covers Mexico and some of the southern USA, inhabiting dry environments - therefore, it is best to rear caterpillars in mesh cages for the airy conditions. Pupae remain dormant for around 9-10 months, before emerging the following summer!
Difficulty - Easy (2/10)
Host plants - Sumac; Sweet Gum; Ash; Cherry; Walnut
Conditions - Requires air flow; room temperature
Lifecycle - Single brood with moths emerging mid/late summer