Sphinx ligustri EGGS
Privet Hawk-Moths, Sphinx ligustri, are one of the largest moths native to the UK. So-called because their bright green caterpillars can often be found among Privet plants and hedges during the summer, they are not at all challenging to rear and are very impressive at maturity. Pupation occurs underground, however they will pupate without issue on the base of the enclosure. The pupae remain dormant until the following spring, and must be stored cold to break this dormancy. Adult moths feed on nectar from night-blooming flowers like Honeysuckle and can be fed with sugar solution - though this is not necessary if you intend to release them within a day or two.
Difficulty - Easy (1/10)
Host plants - Privet; Lilac; Ash
Temperature - Room temp. or outside
Lifecycle - Single brood annually
Privet Hawk-Moths, Sphinx ligustri, are one of the largest moths native to the UK. So-called because their bright green caterpillars can often be found among Privet plants and hedges during the summer, they are not at all challenging to rear and are very impressive at maturity. Pupation occurs underground, however they will pupate without issue on the base of the enclosure. The pupae remain dormant until the following spring, and must be stored cold to break this dormancy. Adult moths feed on nectar from night-blooming flowers like Honeysuckle and can be fed with sugar solution - though this is not necessary if you intend to release them within a day or two.
Difficulty - Easy (1/10)
Host plants - Privet; Lilac; Ash
Temperature - Room temp. or outside
Lifecycle - Single brood annually
Privet Hawk-Moths, Sphinx ligustri, are one of the largest moths native to the UK. So-called because their bright green caterpillars can often be found among Privet plants and hedges during the summer, they are not at all challenging to rear and are very impressive at maturity. Pupation occurs underground, however they will pupate without issue on the base of the enclosure. The pupae remain dormant until the following spring, and must be stored cold to break this dormancy. Adult moths feed on nectar from night-blooming flowers like Honeysuckle and can be fed with sugar solution - though this is not necessary if you intend to release them within a day or two.
Difficulty - Easy (1/10)
Host plants - Privet; Lilac; Ash
Temperature - Room temp. or outside
Lifecycle - Single brood annually