Bardi Ghost Moth, Trictena atripalpis
Mid April 2015
Marion Bay
Emerging after rain. A series of individuals.
Collected under the outdoor light.
Larval/Pupal Hole
Over a week a half emerged pupa was visible and irresistible for photographing. The Hepialid larvae live in silk lined holes and come out at night to feed. They then pupate in the hole. Trictena atripalpis often leave their pupal case half out of their exit hole.
Day 1
Day 2
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7. The hole was 20 cm deep, assuming there were no bends.
Mid April 2021
Geilston Bay
Mid April 2021
Geilston Bay
The same moth as the images above, showing the startling defensive wing flap.