Bullseye Silk-Moth EGGS (Automeris excreta)

Eggs are expected in winter.

Automeris excreta is a colourful member of the Bullseye moth genus Automeris (Hubner, 1819) distributed across large parts of Central America and some parts of South America. The male and female of this species possess slightly different colouration, however both have the characteristic 'bullseye' on each hind-wing, displayed when the moth is disturbed as a mechanism to deter possible predators. Also typical of this genus are the caterpillars which are covered in stinging spines - harmless but feel like nettles when stung - so it is best to avoid handling them! They do very well on hosts like Cherry and Portuguese Laurels (Prununus laurocerasus and P. lusitanica), which are evergreen and therefore very useful winter host plants, as well as Oak (Quercus) and Willow (Salix) in spring and summer. Not at all difficult to keep. 

Host plants - Oak, Willow, Prunus, Rubus (Raspberry/Blackberry). Others are reported and worth trying!

Difficulty - Easy (2/10) but caterpillars have stinging spikes so avoid handling!

Temperature - Room temp.

Lifecycle - one to three broods depending on environmental conditions