Lappet Moth quercifolia 15 eggs

Lappet Moth Gastropacha quercifolia  

We don't get Lappets every year. This is quite special.

A magnificent species with fascinating, very large furry caterpillars that blend into their surroundings, and a moth that looks just like a bunch of leaves. Very easy to rear, sleeved on growing Blackthorn, Plum, Hawthorn or Apple.

The larvae grow to become a good size for hibernation, when they settle down the twigs and remain still for the winter.

Sleeve the larvae for the winter, using a double sleeve which protects better than single, during winter gales and helps prevent predators. In spring they awake and feed up rapidly, becoming giant and pupating in June. The cocoon is thin and papery. Inside the pupa is fragile and should not be disturbed. The moth is something that will amaze anyone seeing it for the first time!