Summer Porina
Common NameSummer Porina
Scientific NameWiseana cervinata
FamilyHepialidae
SubfamilyHepialinae
Wingspan (mm)55
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, white
HabitatGrasslands, pastures, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host Plantsryegrass, clover, cocksfoot, fescue
Flight PeriodDecember to March
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as porina caterpillars, live in vertical burrows in the soil, emerging at night to feed on plant roots and foliage. Pupation occurs underground within the larval burrow. Adults are short-lived and do not feed.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic white markings on the forewings against a mottled brown background, the robust and hairy body, and the typical resting posture with wings held tent-like over the body. Males have feathery antennae.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with a furry, light brown body and mottled brown forewings featuring distinctive white or cream-colored markings, often forming a 'V' or 'Y' shape.
