North Queensland Day Moth
Common NameNorth Queensland Day Moth
Scientific NameAlcides metaurus
FamilyUraniidae
SubfamilyUraniinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark blue, yellow, teal
HabitatTropical rainforests, forest edges
Geographic RangeNorth-eastern Queensland (Australia), New Guinea
Host PlantsOmphalea queenslandiae, Omphalea papuana
Flight PeriodYear-round
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious and feed on *Omphalea* vines, often causing significant defoliation. They pupate in a cocoon among leaf litter before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its large size, vibrant iridescent blue/green and yellow striped pattern, and the slightly scalloped or 'tailed' appearance of its hindwings, resembling a swallowtail butterfly, combined with its day-flying habit.
Description
A large, striking day-flying moth with iridescent dark blue-black wings marked with broad, wavy bands of bright yellow and teal-green, and scalloped hindwings.
