She-Oak Moth
Common NameShe-Oak Moth
Scientific NamePernattia pusilla
FamilyLasiocampidae
SubfamilyLasiocampinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, cream
HabitatDry sclerophyll forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania)
Host PlantsAllocasuarina littoralis, Allocasuarina verticillata
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, larvae are hairy and feed on She-oak leaves, pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults emerge in late summer to autumn.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive mottled brown forewing pattern, robust furry body, and the feathery antennae, particularly in males. Its association with She-oak trees is also a key indicator.
Description
A robust, hairy moth with mottled brown and dark brown forewings featuring intricate, cryptic patterns. Its body is densely covered in reddish-brown fur, and males possess prominent feathery antennae.
