Mistletoe Emperor Moth
Common NameMistletoe Emperor Moth
Scientific NameGonimbrasia belina
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)135
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsorange, pink, black
HabitatSavanna woodlands, dry forests
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa (e.g., Botswana, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Zambia)
Host PlantsTapinanthus, Colophospermum mopane, Brachystegia, Julbernardia, Rhus
Flight PeriodNovember to April
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, commonly known as mopane worms, are a significant food source in southern Africa. They feed on host plants, pupate underground in a cocoon, and emerge as nocturnal adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, striking salmon-pink/orange coloration, and the four prominent, multi-ringed eyespots on both forewings and hindwings, along with the dark band on the forewings.
Description
A large, robust moth with broad, salmon-pink to orange wings, each bearing a prominent, multi-ringed eyespot. The forewings also feature a distinct dark greyish-black band.
