Brahmaea tancrei, commonly known as the Siberian Owl Moth, is a visually striking moth with a wingspan that can reach up to 15 centimeters. Its wings are adorned with intricate patterns. The primary coloration consists of various shades of grey and black. Eggs will hatch within a couple of weeks. Caterpillars are easily as striking as the adult moths, very easy to rear on Privet, among other host plants, including Lilac and Ash. Store pupae cold over winter, they will emerge in response to warming temperatures the following spring. Typically the moths emerge around the same time as our own Emperor Moths (pavonia), quite early in the spring, and are single-brooded.
Host plants: Privet, Lilac, Ash
Difficulty: Easy (2/10)
Temperature: Room temperature
Lifecycle: Moths emerge early in spring; caterpillars have brilliant ‘tentacles’ and bright green and yellow colours
