Distribution:

from Western Europe (but not the British Isles) through temperate Europe and Asia all the way to Japan. This species is absent in the north (northern Scandinavia) and south (southern Europe)

Wingspan:

in between 6 and 8,5 cm

Season:

one flight early in spring (from late March to early May, depending on local conditions). Pupae overwinter

Food plants:

Fagus, Corylus, Betula, Alnus

Rearing:

Not difficult, but do not overcrowd, this species does not like company very much. Moths emerge soon after the pupae have been taken out of the fridge (early in spring, when the host plants show the first new leaves). There are no high temperatures required for this. They also emerge with a day temperature around 10°C and a night temperature close to freezing point. Caterpillars grow fast and are ready to pupate within 4 to 5 weeks (depending on temperature). Don't keep too warm. Keep the first instars in well ventilated plastic containers, but move to spacious netted cages when older. Aglia do not make a cocoon. The pupae can overwinter in the fridge.

Difficulties:

do not overcrowd