Giant Peacock Moth
Image: Wenceslaus Hollar (Public domain)
Common NameGiant Peacock Moth
Scientific NameSaturnia pyri
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)130
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white, blue
HabitatOrchards, gardens, open woodlands, parks
Geographic RangeSouthern and Central Europe, North Africa, Near East
Host PlantsPrunus, Pyrus, Malus, Fraxinus, Salix, Populus, Crataegus
Flight PeriodApril to June
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, green, spiny caterpillars. They pupate in a large, pear-shaped cocoon attached to branches, with adults emerging in spring.
Identification TipsIts immense size (up to 15 cm wingspan) and the distinctive large, multi-ringed eyespots on all four wings make it unmistakable in its range.
Description
A very large, robust moth with a hairy body and broad wings, characterized by four prominent, multi-ringed eyespots, one on each wing, set against a mottled grey-brown background.
