Ligurian Emperor
Common NameLigurian Emperor
Scientific NameSaturnia pavoniella
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, pink, black, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, scrubland, heathland, rocky areas, Mediterranean maquis
Geographic RangeSouthern Europe (e.g., Italy, France, Balkans)
Host PlantsPrunus, Crataegus, Rubus, Erica, Pistacia, Rhamnus
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with black bands and yellow tubercles, feeding on various shrubs and trees. They pupate in a pear-shaped cocoon, typically overwintering as pupae. Univoltine.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the large, prominent eyespots on all four wings, often with a noticeable pinkish or reddish flush, especially on the hindwings. Males have feathery antennae and are day-flying.
Description
A large, robust moth with mottled grey-brown wings, featuring prominent, multi-ringed eyespots on both forewings and hindwings, often with pinkish or reddish markings.
