Moderate Owlet Moth
Common NameModerate Owlet Moth
Scientific NameIchneutica moderata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatNative forests, shrubland, subalpine areas, grasslands
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (North and South Islands)
Host PlantsPoa species, native grasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are polyphagous, feeding on various native grasses and herbaceous plants, often at night.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its highly variable but consistently cryptic grey-brown forewing pattern, often blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Endemic to New Zealand.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic, mottled grey and brown forewings, speckled with black, designed for camouflage against bark or rocks. Its hindwings are typically paler.
