Cat-Eye Emperor EGGS (Aurivillius drumonti)

Rarely offered, this is a beautiful golden-yellow silk-moth species from Africa. Larvae are also colourful, adorned with silver markings, and are not difficult to rear. We have had very good results previously using Willow, but this is not ideal for winter rearing - online records indicate Privet (conveniently evergreen) is a host however we cannot guarantee they will accept it. Oaks are also accepted and therefore evergreen Oak may be useful too. Growth is fast and pupation occurs at around 4-5 weeks with emergence of adults shortly after, usually less than a month later. Breeding occurs easily and the moths can be bred continually in captivity, though they probably breed seasonally in the wild. 

Difficulty: Straightforward (4/10).

Host plants: Willow (Salix); Privet (Ligustrum); Oak (Quercus).

Conditions - Room temperature is sufficient for all stages. Pupae require humidity to emerge; larvae will drink droplets of water.

Life-cycle - Continually brooded but pupae go into diapause when conditions are too dry or cold.