J.R., Invermay

This is one of the swift moths, sometimes also known as rain moths, wood moths or bardi moths.

They are larger nocturnal moths that are readily attracted to lights, particularly in forested places.

They emerge from the ground at night when autumn rains arrive. They have had a long life as a caterpillar below ground, but their adult life is very short – only a day or two. They mate and then die at this stage.

The caterpillars or grubs are very large and are commonly known as bardi grubs or witchetty grubs. They burrow in the ground, feeding on tree roots. Their pupal cases are seen on the forest floor in autumn.