Sundowner moth
Common NameSundowner moth
Scientific NameEudocima salaminia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyCalpinae
Wingspan (mm)100
Primary Colorsbrown, green, black, purple
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, orchards, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheast Asia, Australia (Queensland, New South Wales, Northern Territory), Pacific Islands (e.g., Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Fiji, Samoa)
Host PlantsTinospora smilacina, Stephania japonica, Sarcopetalum harveyanum, Cocculus orbiculatus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically dark with yellow or red markings, feeding on Menispermaceae vines. Adults are known for their fruit-piercing habits, feeding on ripe fruit juices.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its highly cryptic, mottled brown and green forewings with intricate wavy patterns and dark spots. The hindwings, though not always visible, are bright orange with prominent black spots and a black border.
Description
A large moth with highly cryptic forewings mottled in shades of brown, green, and purplish iridescence, featuring complex wavy lines and dark spots, designed to resemble dead leaves.
