Cabbage Tree Emperor Moth PUPAE (Bunaea alcinoe)

This is a large and very striking silkmoth species native to many countries in tropical regions of Africa, with the appearance of both the caterpillar and moth varying locally. Caterpillars can be reared in captivity using standard methods with Privet or Ivy foliage as a host plant - they become very large and are coloured with red, white, and black markings and harmless spines. They benefit from a warm room but should not be kept hot.  In some regions, other larval colour forms also exist. 

Difficulty - Straightforward (3/10)

Host plants - Privet (Ligustrum), Sweetgum (Liquidambar) and Ivy (Hedera helix) in captivity.

Conditions - A warm room (22-4 degrees) is ideal for all stages. Pupae require humidity to emerge.

Lifecycle - Continually brooded but pupae capable of diapause when too cool/dry.