Emperor Moth

Saturnia pavonia

Description

Wingspan 55 - 85mm. The female is Britain's largest moth with eye-spots on all four grey wings. The male is slightly smaller and his hind wings have an orange ground colour.

Habitat

Open habitats, including moorland and rough ground. The larvae feed on heather, bramble, hawthorn, sallow or birch. At Netherfield Lagoons they are found on bramble.

Status and distribution

Common and widely distributed in Britain. Fairly common in Nottinghamshire, mostly along the Trent Valley. Common at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

April to May.