Saturniids

A beautiful oriental species belonging to the genus Loepa which occur as far east as southeastern China. Adults are large and brightly coloured. The striking caterpillars feed on Citrus reticulata (mandarin orange) and fly in June.

Most of you know, I have a long association with moths. I spent many years photographically documenting the larger moths in my own country and across Britain as well. Running in the background was a long-term project of mine to photograph some of the world’s most beautiful Saturniid moths. I have had a passion for this group of magnificent insects for many years and have travelled across Europe photographing those species that occur there.

The majority of species are to be found in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world, particularly in the New World tropics. There are around 12 species that have been found in Europe with only one species the Emperor Moth Saturnia pavonia that occurs in the British Isles. Well over 2,000 species have been described with many more as yet undiscovered. I have been working with other entomologist’s in Europe who are working on this group and it is my intention to produce a publication in the not too distant future on this fascinating group of moths. Enclosed are just a few that I have studied and photographed.

 

Locally known as the Zambezi Emperor, this attractive species can be found along the east-African coastline from Natal to Kenya. It also occurs inland along the Zambezi and Kwando river valleys.

 

A striking species known locally as the African Moon Moth. It is widely distributed in eastern Africa from Natal through to Tanzania. It also occurs in the Octave Mountains in Namibia. The large caterpillars feed on Tamboti.

 

Primarily a Mexican species, although it has been seen in southern Arizona. Individuals vary in the chocolate-brown colouring on the wings. It is a subspecies of the Imperial Moth Eacles imperialis.

 

A highly colourful and variable species found in many regions of South America, including Paraguay, Peru, Bolivia and Argentina. Adults fly in May and June and again in September and October. 

 

A beautiful species known locally as the Malaysian Moon Moth. It is commonly found in Thailand, but it has also been recorded from Laos, Vietnam and Borneo. The caterpillars feed naturally on Cucumber Tree and Java Almond. Like many moon moths, they are extremely nervous and can be challenging to photograph. Their long tails are very easily damaged.