The fully grown caterpillars are usually found on the highest branches of the host tree where the leaves are the youngest and easiest to digest.

By the final stage before pupation the caterpillars have developed striking coloration, having a yellow/cream stripe down their bright green/blue body and nodes of red and blue.

The caterpillar stage in the emperor gum moth's life cycle can last for many weeks, depending on the temperature and weather conditions.

When spinning is complete, the caterpillar sheds its final skin and takes the form of its pupal life stage.

Within a day of spinning completion, the cocoon sets to a hard waterproof shell with a rough exterior and a smooth interior wall.

When the metamorphosis is complete, the adult moth regurgitates a fluid to soften the tough cocoon and then cuts a hole using sharp hooks on the base of each forewing.