SUMMER: Archaeoattacus edwardsii EGGS

Edwards’ Atlas Moth, Archaeoattacus edwardsii (White, 1859), is related to the Giant Atlas Moth, however it is slightly smaller in size (wingspan up to 25cm) and much deeper in colour. Most edwardsii are a dark maroon or purple. These moths naturally occur in mountainous habitat, including in the Himalayas, so enjoy fairly modest temperatures (18-22 degrees) but high humidity (80%+). Therefore, most successful rearing seems to occur when caterpillars are reared in plastic boxes at room temperature, as the plastic retains humidity where a net cage will not. I also recommend keeping cocoons humid. Do not feel the need to add heat as this can lead to disease. This is not a beginners’ species, but if you are confident rearing silkmoths it is definitely worth trying - and potentially extremely rewarding. In captivity, the best host plant is typically Privet (Ligustrum ovafolium or similar), however others are used in the wild and could be offered instead. Multiple broods are possible in a year, and the cocoons are capable of extended diapause at low temperatures.