Wavy Owl Moth
Common NameWavy Owl Moth
Scientific NameSpirama retorta
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)80
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, yellow
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeIndia, Sri Lanka, Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines), China, Australia
Host PlantsAcacia, Albizia, Cassia, Dalbergia, Pterocarpus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae feed on various leguminous plants, and pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the large, distinct, black-centered eyespots on the forewings, surrounded by concentric rings of yellow and black, set against a background of wavy brown and tan patterns. The robust build and nocturnal habits are also characteristic.
Description
A large, robust moth with cryptic brown and tan forewings featuring prominent, black-centered eyespots ringed with yellow and black. The hindwings are similarly patterned with wavy bands, providing excellent camouflage.
