Pohuehue Owlet
Common NamePohuehue Owlet
Scientific NameIchneutica lignana
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, grey
HabitatCoastal areas, scrubland, forest edges, gardens, and disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsMuehlenbeckia complexa, Muehlenbeckia australis
Flight PeriodSeptember to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves and stems of *Muehlenbeckia* species, particularly pohuehue. Pupation typically occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown forewings with indistinct darker markings, relatively plain lighter brown hindwings, and its strong association with *Muehlenbeckia* vines in New Zealand.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with cryptically patterned brown forewings featuring darker mottling and spots, and plainer, lighter brown hindwings. Its body is hairy and robust.
