Speckled Emperor EGGS (Gynanisa maja)

Eggs arriving in October.

This giant African moth is rarely available as eggs - due to adults emerging randomly, often months apart - but we have some which will be ready for dispatch this or next week. Caterpillars are spectacular, covered in silver stud-like tubercles, and not at all difficult to rear. They enjoy a warm room but should not need additional heat. They do best in mesh cages from L2/3 and should be misted lightly every couple of days in this setup, as the caterpillars drink droplets of water off the host plant leaves. These have been reared successfully in captivity using Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus - useful now as evergreen), Oaks (Quercus), Sweetgum (Liquidambar), and Acacia. 

Difficulty - Straightforward (2/10)

Host plants - Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), Oak (including evergreen, Quercus), Sweetgum (Liquidambar), possibly Blue Gum (Eucalyptus).

Conditions - A warm room (22-24 degrees) is ideal for all stages. Pupae require humidity to emerge; larvae will drink droplets of water.

Lifecycle - Continually brooded but pupae go into diapause for months when conditions are too dry or cold.