One of these incredible caterpillars transformed into an incredible moth on March 13th of this year! After burrowing underground in December, it finally completed its metamorphosis and surprised us all with its enormity and beauty.
Autumn Afrikaner
Autumn Afrikaner – Gladiolus emiliae
The Pine Emperor Moth (Nudaurelia cytherea) is one of the largest moths in Southern Africa with a wingspan of 15cm.
The larvae undergo six moults and exhibit highly social behaviour until the end of the second moult. Following the second moult, they develop vibrant colours, featuring bands of blue, green, and yellow spots against a deep maroon backdrop. Their complete development spans 6 to 8 weeks, reaching a length of 100 to 125 mm upon maturity. Fully grown larvae descend to the ground in search of soft soil, where they burrow to a depth of approximately 50 mm. After several days, their dorsal skin splits open.
Initially, pupae are dark red but gradually turn dull black and harden over a few days. The pupal stage persists for 5 to 6 months. As the moth nears emergence, the pupa moves toward the soil surface, ruptures its casing, and releases the moth. Upon emerging, the moth ascends a short distance up a tree or shrub, allowing its wings to expand and solidify—a process requiring roughly 30 minutes. Adult moths have a brief lifespan, lasting only a few days, during which they mate and the female deposits approximately 200 eggs on a suitable food plant.
The Pine Emperor Moth (Nudaurelia cytherea) is one of the largest moths in Southern Africa with a wingspan of 15cm.
