North Island Lichen Moth
Common NameNorth Island Lichen Moth
Scientific NameDeclana atronivea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, black, brown, grey
HabitatNative forests, shrubland, and areas with abundant lichens and mosses
Geographic RangeNorth Island, New Zealand
Host Plantslichens, mosses, Leptospermum scoparium, Kunzea ericoides, Coprosma, Griselinia, Metrosideros, Nothofagus
Flight PeriodOctober to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are cryptic and feed on lichens, mosses, and various native trees and shrubs before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black and white lichen-like pattern on the forewings, contrasting with plain brownish hindwings. Its presence is restricted to the North Island of New Zealand.
Description
This medium-sized moth features striking forewings with irregular black and dark brown patterns on a white background, mimicking lichen, while its hindwings are plain brownish-grey. Its body is hairy and mottled white and grey.
