White-headed Barea
Common NameWhite-headed Barea
Scientific NameBarea leucocephala
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyOecophorinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, areas with decaying wood and leaf litter
Geographic RangeSoutheastern Australia (New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia)
Host Plantsdecaying wood, fungi, leaf litter
Flight PeriodSpring to Autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying wood, fungi, and leaf litter, playing a role in decomposition. Pupation occurs within a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the striking white head and thorax, and the specific pattern of broad, irregular dark brown bands on a pale background across the forewings.
Description
A small moth with a distinctive white head and thorax, contrasting with forewings that are predominantly white or pale grey, marked with prominent, irregular dark brown to black bands and mottling.
