Kowhai Owlet
Common NameKowhai Owlet
Scientific NameGraphania mutans
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, grey, white
HabitatForests, shrubland, gardens, urban areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsSophora, Coprosma, Hebe, Lupinus, Wisteria
Flight PeriodYear-round, most active September to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown caterpillars that feed on the foliage of various plants, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled green-brown forewings with pale-outlined reniform and orbicular stigmata, resembling lichen or bark. Its presence in New Zealand is also a key indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic forewings mottled in shades of green, brown, and grey, often resembling lichen or bark, with distinct pale-outlined stigmata.
