Distribution:

the entire Palearctic region, from Ireland to Japan. Everywhere except the extreme north.

Wingspan:

In between 2,5 and 4 centimeter

Season:

From June to August, in one flight. Eggs overwinter

Food plants:

Many deciduous shrubs and trees, including Corylus, Quercus, Fagus, Carpinus, Betula, Alnus, Tilia, Rosa, Rubus, Crataegus, Malus, Prunus, Salix, Populus ...

Rearing:

Very easy. Eggs overwinter in the fridge and should be taken out early spring. Caterpillars develop fast and pupate within five to six weeks. Caterpillars are social in all stages, except the last The final instar is best kept in a netted cages to avoid diseases, even though this is not absolutely necessary. When you keep them dry and clean even the final instars can stay in a well ventilated plastic container. The pupal stage is short (only a few weeks)

Difficulties:

none