Anthela ferruginosa Rusty Anthelid
A variable species.
IDENTIFICATION AIDS: We have sighted the following colour forms of A. ferruginosa here on our property, the rich red (rusty) brown form, the dark brown form and a grey form.
A. ferruginosa usually have two eye-spots on each forewing. In some specimens they are of equal size, set apart from each other, whilst in other specimen’s they are touching each other (but not over-lapping) with the larger of the two eye-spots closest to the forewing apex. The eye-spots are rimmed with a fine black line enclosing a dull yellowish centre.
Each of the forewings has a series of black dots (usually 8) forming a postmedial band. The hindwings have a similar number of paler black dots in its marginal band. These dots can all be seen when the adult is initially at rest before adjusting its wings to the resting position.
A. ferruginosa lacks other easily recognisable features to assist ID.
Of the various Anthelidae that we sight here A. ferruginosa is the species we see least.
This moth occurs in Queensland, New South Wales, ACT, Victoria, South Australia and Tasmania. We have seen it in November and December.
Larval foodplant
Grasses POACEAE