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Granny's Cloak Moth

Speiredonia spectans

Photo by Neil Ross
Published on Project Noah
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Field Notes

Description:

Granny's Cloak Moth is a species of moth of the Noctuidae family. It is found in the north-east quarter of Australia and Tasmania, but strays have also been recorded on Norfolk Island and in New Zealand. It's a large moth, brownish grey with purplish reflections, eye spots on the forewings and scalloped patterns. From a distance it looks like a normal dark brown moth, but up close it has a delicate pattern and is very translucent. These are large fluttering moths and are often seen in dark places around the house. The wingspan is about 70 mm. Larvae feed on Acacia species of plants, usually wattle. PS: I've yet to establish if this moth is male or female.

Habitat:

In the bush, adults roost in hollow trees and caves during daylight. In houses they favour darkened rooms, cupboards, under floorboards, in sheds and garages, etc., and also in stormwater drains.

Notes:

This moth had found its way into my kitchen one evening and was roosting on the fly screen of the kitchen window. A flash was used so picture quality is mediocre, but still, the beauty of the moth's stunning colours is evident.

Species ID Suggestions

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