Distribution:

the  Alpine regions across the Mediterranean east to Turkey and the Caucasus and north to the Czech Republic

Wingspan:

between 45 and 70 mm for the males and between 50 and 95 mm for the females.

Season:

one flight from (late) February to April. In captivity sometimes earlier. Cocoons overwinter

Food plants:

Crataegus, Rosa, Rubus, Sorbus, Malus, Prunus spinosa, Spiraea, Potentilla and other Rosaceae. Also Calluna, Carpinus, Betula and Salix

Rearing:

Not difficult. Take the cocoons out of the fridge as soon as the hawthorn or willows are starting to regrow.  Moths emerge approximately 2 weeks later. Growth is fast (ready to pupate within 5 to 6 weeks).  Keep in well ventilated plastic containers or better in netted cages at room temperature.

Difficulties:

none