Giant Peacock Moth
Common NameGiant Peacock Moth
Scientific NameSaturnia pyri
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)150
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black, orange
HabitatOrchards, gardens, parks, open woodlands, Mediterranean scrub
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe, North Africa, Middle East
Host Plantspear, apple, cherry, plum, ash, willow, elm, hawthorn, almond
Flight PeriodApril to June
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, green, spiny caterpillars that feed on various trees. They pupate in a large, pear-shaped cocoon attached to a branch, with adults emerging in spring.
Identification TipsIts immense size (the largest moth in Europe), pale ground color, and the four large, distinct eyespots (especially the hindwing ones with their black, blue, and orange rings) make it unmistakable.
Description
A very large, robust moth with a furry body and broad, pale greyish-white wings intricately patterned with dark brown wavy lines. It features prominent, multi-ringed eyespots on both forewings and hindwings.
