Laothoe populi

 

 

Distribution:

Most of Europe, except the far north and parts of the Iberian peninsula and the Balkan. East into Russia at least as far as the Urals, but probably even further.

Wingspan:

in between 7 and 10 cm. 

Season:

one to two flights, in between May and September

Food plants:

Especially Populus and Salix species

Rearing:

Very easy, suitable for children. Keep in well ventilated plastic containers, netted cages or sleeved outdoors. Fast growing and ready to pupate in approximately  four weeks. The pupal stage between two summer flights is short (around 3 weeks). Keep the pupae in the fridge to overwinter.

Difficulties:

none