Small Emperor Moth
Common NameSmall Emperor Moth
Scientific NameSaturnia pavonia
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)65
Wing Patterneyespot
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black, white
HabitatMoorland, heathland, open woodland, scrub, bogs
Geographic RangeEurope, temperate Asia
Host Plantsheather, willow, birch, sallow, hawthorn, blackthorn, meadowsweet, bramble
Flight PeriodApril to June
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are bright green with black rings and yellow spots, feeding on a variety of shrubs. They pupate in a distinctive pear-shaped cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the large, prominent eyespots on both forewings and hindwings. Males are day-flying with feathery antennae and bright orange hindwings, while females are larger, nocturnal, and have grey hindwings.
Description
This medium-sized moth features prominent, circular eyespots on all four wings. Males, like the one pictured, have striking orange hindwings and feathery antennae.
