Southern Oxycanus
Common NameSouthern Oxycanus
Scientific NameOxycanus australis
FamilyHepialidae
Wingspan (mm)65
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, cream
HabitatGrasslands, open woodlands, heathlands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia)
Host Plantsgrasses, ferns, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMarch to June (Southern Hemisphere autumn/early winter)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean root feeders, living underground for up to two years before pupating. Adults emerge to mate and lay eggs, typically having a short lifespan.
Identification TipsLook for the robust, hairy body and mottled reddish-brown forewings with irregular cream markings. It is active during autumn and early winter nights in southeastern Australia and is often attracted to lights.
Description
This is a robust, hairy moth with mottled brown and reddish-brown forewings featuring irregular cream-colored markings and darker reticulations. Its body is stout and covered in dense reddish-brown fur.
