Physetica caerulea
Common NamePhysetica caerulea
Scientific NamePhysetica caerulea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, brown
HabitatNative forests, shrublands, subalpine areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (North and South Islands)
Host PlantsHebe
Flight PeriodDecember to March
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: eggs hatch into larvae (caterpillars) that feed on host plants, then pupate before emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsKey features include the intricate mottled grey and white forewing pattern with distinct darker transverse lines, contrasting with the plainer light brown hindwings. The overall cryptic appearance is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings featuring darker, wavy transverse lines, and plain light brown hindwings that darken towards the margin. Its body is robust and hairy, matching the cryptic coloration of its forewings.
