Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Arthropoda
Class: Insecta
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Noctuidae
Genus: Rhapsa
Species: R. scotosialis
Scientific name: Rhapsa scotosialis
Common name: Slender Owlet Moth
The Slender Owlet moth is one of New Zealand's commonest forest moths. It is in the group of moths called snout moths because they have long upturned palps. It has a forewing length of >20 mm. Easily recognised by its triangular shape while at rest. The adults are found all year round.
Its caterpillars are free-living and move from place to place, feeding on fallen leaves and moss.They palpate among leaf litter.
The adult moth's forewings are variable in pattern and in colour, as seen in photos below.
Male moth with its feathery antennae.
Male
Male
Male
Male
Female moth with a 20mm body length.
When at rest the female's antennae.are held under the wings. They are not feathery like the males.
Female resting wings held flat.
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