Egeus's Eyed Silkmoth
Common NameEgeus's Eyed Silkmoth
Scientific NameAutomeris egeus
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilyHemileucinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, orange, cream
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, clearings
Geographic RangeMexico south through Central America to parts of South America (e.g., Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Colombia)
Host PlantsQuercus, Salix, Prunus, Acacia, Erythrina
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple broods
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are spiny, often gregarious, and can deliver a stinging sensation. They pupate in a loose cocoon in leaf litter or shallow soil. Adults are nocturnal and do not feed.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its dark forewings contrasting with bright orange hindwings that display large, well-defined black and white concentric eyespots. The specific pattern of the eyespots helps differentiate it from similar Automeris species.
Description
A large, robust moth with dark brown to black forewings and striking orange hindwings, each featuring a prominent, concentric black and white eyespot. The body is hairy and orange-brown.
