Banksia Moth
Common NameBanksia Moth
Scientific NameDanima banksiae
FamilyAnthelidae
SubfamilyAnthelinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange, brown
HabitatOpen forests, woodlands, coastal heathlands
Geographic RangeEastern Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania)
Host PlantsBanksia, Hakea, Grevillea, Lomatia, Persoonia
Flight PeriodFebruary to May (late summer to autumn in Australia)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy and feed on various species of Proteaceae. They pupate in a cocoon, often found attached to host plants or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive white patch on the thorax and the dark, spotted forewings. The robust, hairy body and nocturnal activity are also key indicators.
Description
A robust, hairy moth with dark grey to black forewings marked with scattered white and yellowish spots. The thorax is densely covered in black, white, and orange-brown hairs, featuring a prominent white patch.
