Bugs & Butterflies UK
Royal Walnut Moth | Citheronia regalis EGGS
Royal Walnut Moth | Citheronia regalis EGGS
Couldn't load pickup availability
Citheronia regalis, commonly known as the Regal moth or Royal Walnut moth, is one of the most striking moth species in North America. It belongs to the family Saturniidae and is notable for its large size and vibrant coloration. Adults have a wingspan ranging from 9.5 to 15.5 cm and display a striking combination of grayish base colour with bright orange and yellow patterns.
The caterpillar of this species, often known as the hickory horned devil, is equally remarkable. It is one of the largest caterpillars in North America, reaching lengths of up to 15cm. Despite its intimidating appearance, with prominent spiny "horns" and a greenish-blue body, the hickory horned devil is harmless to humans. It primarily feeds on the leaves of trees such as hickory, ash, walnut, pecan, and sweetgum, although others are reported.
The life cycle of Citheronia regalis includes a pupal stage where the caterpillar burrows into the soil to overwinter before emerging as an adult moth in late spring or summer. Adults do not feed and live only a few days, focusing solely on reproduction. Habitat loss and pesticide use pose challenges to this species, but it remains a fascinating subject for entomologists and nature enthusiasts.
Difficulty - Straightforward (3/10)
Host plants - Sweet Gum; Sumac; Ash; Hickory; Persimmon, etc.
Conditions - Room temperature.
Lifecycle - Single brood annually.
Share
