Bullseye Silk-Moth | Automeris metzli COCOONS

Automeris metzli is a species of moth in the family Saturniidae, primarily found in parts of Mexico and Central America. Like other members of the Automeris genus, it is known for its vibrant hindwings featuring dramatic eyespots and its cryptically colored forewings, which together serve as an effective defense mechanism against predators.

The forewings of Automeris metzli are typically brown or gray, allowing the moth to blend into tree bark or leaves during rest. However, the hindwings are vividly colored, in bright shades of red, with large, eye-like patterns in black and blue. When threatened, the moth rapidly reveals these hindwings, startling potential predators and mimicking the appearance of a larger animal. It is also one of the largest Automeris with a broad wingspan.

The larvae of Automeris metzli are very colourful, but spiny and equipped with urticating hairs that can cause irritation or mild stings if touched, serving as a natural deterrent to predators. These caterpillars feed on a variety of host plants and are generally gregarious in early stages before becoming solitary feeders. After several instars (6 or 7 compared to the usual 5 for most butterflies and moths), they spin a silken cocoon to pupate, typically emerging as adult moths in 4-6 weeks, although they can become dormant during cold periods.

Host plants: Oak, Willow, Raspberry, Bramble

Difficulty: Straightforward (3/10)

Temperature: Room temp.

Lifecycle: Continually brooded; pupae can diapause