Distribution:

from Mexico to Panama. Further south things become more shady. Orizaba is also reported from Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, in a number of subspecies. However, some of these subspecies have been elevated to full species status.

Wingspan:

In between 12 and 15 cm

Season:

Depending on the subspecies one to three flights. The cocoons overwinter.

Food plants:

Ligustrum, Fraxinus, Prunus

Rearing:

An easy species. Rear warm (in between 25 and 30 °C during the day), dry and clean in spacious, well ventilated, plastic containers (or in a netted cage when older). Ready to pupate within 4 weeks (or less when kept very warm). The pupal stage in between 2 flights is variable depending on your rearing conditions (3 to 4 weeks to several months). The cocoons of the last flight can overwinter in an unheated (frost free) room until spring. The fridge is not recommended.

Difficulties:

none