Calleta Silk-Moth | Eupackardia calleta COCOONS

Eupackardia calleta, commonly known as the Calleta Silk-Moth, is a large moth species in the family Saturniidae, found primarily in the southwestern United States, Mexico, and Central America. This moth is known for its impressive size and striking appearance. Genetic and behavioural differences suggest that calleta from southern parts of its range probably constitute a separate but related species. In the north of its range, calleta is day-flying, with males actively lured to female's pheromones during the late morning or early afternoon. Breeding takes place very easily and each female lays 200+ eggs.

The adult Eupackardia calleta has large, angular wings that are predominantly black or dark-brown with some lighter patterns and triangular eye spots. The larvae of Eupackardia calleta are large, green caterpillars that feed on a variety of plants, but in captivity the best are Lilac and Privet. These caterpillars are known for their impressive size and very colourful patterns on their bodies, which deter potential predators. Once the caterpillars mature, they pupate in a hard silken cocoon, emerging as adult moths months or even years later! This is a helpful adaptation in their desert habitat, where long periods of hot, dry weather are not suitable for caterpillars to survive in. Instead, the moths emerge during cooler, wetter weather when host plant availability is much greater and the caterpillars have a significantly improved chance of survival.

Host plants: Privet, Lilac.

Difficulty: Straightforward (3/10)

Temperature: Room temp.

Lifecycle: Continually brooded; pupae can remain dormant for an extended period when conditions are not optimal for emergence.