Amata, Moth

General Description

A black moth with five sets of bright orange spots on the forewing. Wingspan 2.5-4 cm; at rest head to wingtip about 3 cm.

Biology

Caterpillars of this moth genus may feed in the leaf litter. Newly emerged adults climb up grass stems to set their wings before flying. This species rarely flies above head height. Different populations across this moth's range have slightly different patterns and shapes and may be different species.

Distribution

Coastal areas of Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland, Northern Territory and northern Western Australia.

Habitat

Usually grassy areas in dry woodland.