Orange-headed Moth
Common NameOrange-headed Moth
Scientific NameChrysoecia thoracica
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorspale grey, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, shrublands, gardens
Geographic RangeSouthern Africa
Host PlantsSenecio, Asteraceae species
Flight PeriodSeptember to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are typically hairy caterpillars, feeding on various plants before pupating.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the plain, unpatterned pale greyish-tan forewings and the contrasting bright orange head and prothorax.
Description
This is a small to medium-sized moth characterized by its plain, pale greyish-tan forewings and a striking bright orange head and collar (prothorax). The body is robust.
