Rothschild's Atlas Moth | Rothschildia ecuatorialis COCOONS

Rothschildia ecuatorialis is a species of giant silk moth belonging to the Saturniidae family. This captivating moth is native to parts of South America, with its range primarily concentrated in Ecuador, as its name suggests.

Adult moths of this species are large, with a wingspan typically ranging from 110 to 150 mm. Their wings are adorned with a mix of reddish-brown, cream, and pale orange hues, forming intricate patterns that are both striking and cryptic. Like other members of the genus Rothschildia, the wings feature prominent hyaline (translucent) windows bordered by contrasting dark and light markings. 

Rothschildia ecuatorialis is primarily found in the tropical and subtropical regions of Ecuador, thriving in cloud forests and other high-altitude habitats. Its distribution may extend into neighboring countries with similar environments, such as Colombia and Peru, though the species' range is not extensively documented.

This species, like most silk moths, is nocturnal and short-lived as an adult. Adult moths do not feed, as their mouthparts are vestigial. Instead, their energy reserves, accumulated during the larval stage, sustain them through their brief adult life, which is dedicated to reproduction.

The caterpillars are large and feed on the leaves of various host plants, often trees or shrubs native to their habitat. These larvae are typically green with distinctive patterns or markings that provide camouflage. When ready to pupate, they spin strong, oval-shaped cocoons attached to tree branches or leaves, where they undergo metamorphosis.

Host plants: Privet, Lilac, Ivy, Citrus

Difficulty: Straightforward (3/10)

Temperature: room temperature but can be kept warmer

Lifecycle: Larval development takes about a month; pupae can remain dormant within tough silk cocoons until conditions are suitable for emergence