Silkmoths and more: Saturnia (Caligula) thibeta okurai

Some caterpillars have just that little bit extra. Those of Saturnia thibeta combine large size (ten centimeter) with long with hair on a green body, which makes them quite striking. In a year with already lots of highlights these are my favorites. At least for now, who knows what else might come later in the season. The breeding isn't complicated, like for most Saturnia species. Keep them in large well ventilated plastic containers or in netted cages. The eggs overwinter in the fridge. Besides Liquidambar, also several Prunus species can serve as food plant (serotina, padus, ...). You can even take them out of the fridge quite early in the season. The caterpillars also develop well on Ligustrum ovalifolium. Just keep in mind that Privet isn't as nutritious during the cold part of winter as it is in spring. It will slow down growth a little. And even under normal circumstances they are not the fastest growers. It can take two months before they are full fed and ready to pupate. The moths will hatch in autumn.