A very common moth, with the larvae feeding on a wide range of flowers. On pohutukawa flowers the larvae are bright red and beautifully camouflaged.
Family
Geometridae
Biostatus
Endemic
Host Plant
Wide range of trees and shrubs (e.g. bush lawyer, rangiora, pohutukawa).
Larva
Bright red, camouflaged on pohutakawa flowers. Feeds on wide host range.
Pupa
Pupates in cocoon on ground detritus.
Adult/Imago
Variable colour pattern. Forewing green or brown, sometimes with large white blotch in wing centre. Found all year. Flies at night, attracted to light.
Forewing Length
8 - 11mm
Range
NZ
Habitat
Native forest, shrubland.