Bag-shelter Moth
Common NameBag-shelter Moth
Scientific NameOchrogaster lunifer
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyThaumetopoeinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatEucalypt forests, woodlands, urban areas
Geographic RangeAustralia
Host PlantsAcacia, Eucalyptus, Casuarina, Hakea
Flight PeriodLate summer to autumn
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, forming silken 'bag shelters' in trees and moving in characteristic 'processions'. The caterpillars are hairy and can cause skin irritation.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white chevron pattern on the forewings and the hairy, dark brown body. The presence of silken bag shelters or processionary caterpillars in host trees is also a key indicator.
Description
A medium-sized, hairy moth with a dark brown body and forewings featuring prominent white, chevron-like stripes on a brown background.
