Electric Sun Moth
Common NameElectric Sun Moth
Scientific NameHeliomystis electrica
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)27.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black
HabitatEucalypt forests, woodlands, shrublands
Geographic RangeEastern and Southern Australia, Tasmania
Host PlantsEucalyptus species
Flight PeriodOctober to March
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'loopers' or 'inchworms' that feed on Eucalyptus leaves. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its cryptic brown forewings and the sudden flash of bright orange hindwings with a black band when disturbed. The pointed labial palps are also a characteristic feature.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings that provide camouflage, and striking bright orange hindwings with a broad black subterminal band, revealed during flight.
