Donovan's Day Moth
Common NameDonovan's Day Moth
Scientific NameComocrus behri
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyProcridinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, forests, coastal areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania)
Host PlantsLeptospermum, Melaleuca
Flight PeriodSeptember to April (Southern Hemisphere spring to autumn)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and feed on the foliage of tea-tree and paperbark species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults emerge to fly during the day.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive black and white spotted wing pattern, its diurnal flight, and its association with *Leptospermum* and *Melaleuca* plants. Males have bipectinate antennae.
Description
A medium-sized day-flying moth with striking black wings adorned with prominent white spots and bands, and a black body.
