Distribution:

A locally abundant species, widespread throughout (south)east Africa, from Kenya, Uganda and Congo (RDC) in the north all the way south to South Africa. The animals depicted here originate from the Dzalanyama Forest (Malawi)

Wingspan:

in between six and seven cm, females are larger and towards brown with a pink hue, while males are more grey(ish)

Season:

Usually only one or two flights annually. but in captivity more or less continuously depending on temperature and humidity. 

Food plants:

In Africa reported to feed upon Brachystegia. Will accept Rhamnus alaternus in captivity, but the leathery leaves are difficult to chew for the first instar. Even when given the youngest leaves, mortality in the first instar remains high. A Rhamnus with softer leaves would probably be better. Once past the first instar they grow without any problems.

Rearing:

Not particularly difficult even while rearing in the winter. Keep in spacious, well ventilated plastic containers. Watch out for condensation and do not give wet leaves. Make sure the food is clean and fresh.  Does well at an average living room temperature. The caterpillars are fairly slow growing for a hawk moth and are ready to pupate within 7 to 8 weeks. However this might be because of the winter rearing or the less then ideal food plant. The pupal stage is short when the humidity is high enough. If not, they can remain dormant for months.

Difficulties:

getting the first instars to eat properly