Currently unavailable. Arguably the most beautiful hawk moth to be found in Europe and the UK, this species is a must. Native to Africa, the Middle East and certain parts of Southern Europe, stocks are periodically available throughout the year and are always in great demand. Success is readily obtained if the larvae are reared in dry conditions on periwinkle (oleander if available) and then transferred to privet in the third instar if necessary. Ensure you have plenty of larval foodplant available as the stunning larvae eat large quantities before pupation. Pairing can be achieved in cool to warm conditions in a standard hanging cage.
Larval foodplant: oleander (nerium); periwinkles (vinca); privet (ligustri) in later instars; grape (vitis).
Rearing: plastic boxes, cages; flowerpot cages, in warm dry conditons.
Photographs: 1st instar larvae x 20 magnification; 2nd instar larvae x 20 magnification; final instar larvae; final instar larvae; pupae.
