Speckled Emperor
Common NameSpeckled Emperor
Scientific NameBunaea alcinoe
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)130
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, pink, black
HabitatWoodlands, savannas, forests
Geographic RangeSub-Saharan Africa
Host PlantsAcacia, Brachystegia, Burkea, Combretum, Cussonia spicata
Flight PeriodThroughout warmer months, varies by region
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are large, spiny, and often brightly colored, feeding gregariously on various trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs underground in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its large size, the mottled grey-brown forewings, and the distinctive pinkish-red and black eyespots on the hindwings. Males have prominent feathery antennae.
Description
A large, robust moth with cryptically patterned grey-brown forewings and striking hindwings featuring prominent, concentric pinkish-red, black, and white eyespots.
