Old Man Moth
Common NameOld Man Moth
Scientific NamePtilomacra senex
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatEucalyptus forests, woodlands, open forests
Geographic RangeAustralia (Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania)
Host PlantsEucalyptus species, Myrtaceae
Flight PeriodOctober to March
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and feed on Eucalyptus leaves, eventually pupating in a cocoon. The caterpillars are known to be quite large.
Identification TipsLook for the large, hairy body with striking black and white bands on the thorax, combined with mottled grey-brown forewings and feathery antennae in males. Often found near Eucalyptus trees.
Description
This is a large, robust moth with mottled grey-brown forewings and a very hairy body. Its thorax is distinctly banded with black and white fur, and males have prominent feathery antennae.
