Ichneutica mollis
Common NameIchneutica mollis
Scientific NameIchneutica mollis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)33
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, grasslands, alpine areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host Plantsnative grasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesFollows a typical moth lifecycle: eggs laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on various native grasses and herbs, pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge primarily in the warmer months.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall cryptic brown and grey coloration, the specific mottled pattern on the forewings, and its endemic range in New Zealand. Identification often requires close examination of wing markings and genitalia to differentiate from similar *Ichneutica* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, often with darker markings, and paler, more uniform hindwings.
