Zambezi Emperor
Common NameZambezi Emperor
Scientific NameGonimbrasia belina
FamilySaturniidae
SubfamilySaturniinae
Wingspan (mm)135
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, black
HabitatSavanna woodlands, particularly Mopane woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa (e.g., Botswana, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique)
Host PlantsColophospermum mopane, Brachystegia spp., Terminalia spp., Ficus spp.
Flight PeriodTypically during the rainy season, often in two broods (e.g., November-December and March-April)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as Mopane worms, are large, spiny caterpillars that feed primarily on Mopane leaves and pupate underground. Adults emerge after pupation, typically during the rainy season.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, robust furry body, and the distinct, ringed eyespots on the forewings, set against a mottled grey-brown background with white bands.
Description
A large, robust moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring a prominent, ringed eyespot on each wing, and a furry body.
