Pasture Day Moth
Common NamePasture Day Moth
Scientific NameApina callisto
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyAganainae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream, reddish-brown
HabitatGrasslands, pastures, open woodlands, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeSouthern and eastern Australia
Host PlantsPlantago, Trifolium, Medicago, Lolium, Avena
Flight PeriodSeptember to December
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy, typically black with yellow or orange stripes/spots, and feed on various grasses and herbaceous plants. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive mottled forewing pattern, the stout hairy body, and its diurnal (day-flying) habit. The bright orange/yellow hindwings with a black border are also characteristic, though not visible in this dorsal view.
Description
This moth has a stout, hairy body and forewings intricately mottled with dark brown, cream, and reddish-brown patterns, often featuring a prominent pale band. Its head and thorax are also hairy with striped markings.
