Antipodean Ghost Moth
Common NameAntipodean Ghost Moth
Scientific NameOxycanus antipoda
FamilyHepialidae
Wingspan (mm)60
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, cream
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host Plantsvarious grasses, herbs, roots of shrubs
Flight PeriodOctober to March
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean root feeders, living in burrows in the soil for several years before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for the robust body, mottled brown and grey forewings with pale, net-like patterns, prominent pectinate antennae (especially in males), and large reddish eyes. Its flight is typically swift and erratic.
Description
A robust-bodied moth with mottled brown and grey forewings featuring irregular pale, reticulated markings. It has prominent pectinate antennae and large, reddish eyes.
