Leucanella windi

NOTE: windi is by many authors still considered to be a subspecies of Leucanella contempta

 

 

Distribution:

southern Mexico (Chiapas), Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador

Wingspan:

approximately 8 to 10 cm

Season:

One flight annually during summer months, with cocoons overwintering

Food plants:

Salix cinerea, Salix caprea - does not accept typical Leucanella food plants like Ligustrum or Prunus

Rearing:

Not difficult, some experience is required though. Keep in well ventilated plastic containers, which need to be spacious when the caterpillars become older. Watch out for condensation  and do not give wet leaves. Somewhat slow growing. It can take seven to even eight weeks before they start pupating . A living room temperature is enough (though on the warmer side as they usually are only available in the northern hemisphere summer). The pupal stage is long. Cocoons overwinter in a cool, frost free room. Adults do not emerge until summer. 

Difficulties:

eggs don't travel well, hatch rate can be low after (longer) transport