Bogong moth

Agrotis infusa

Bogong moth (Agrotis infusa) is a species of moth in the family Noctuidae. It is native to Australia and is known for its remarkable migration patterns. The Bogong moth plays a significant role in the ecosystem and has cultural importance to the Indigenous Australians.

Description

The Bogong moth has a wingspan of approximately 40-50 mm. Its forewings are dark brown with lighter brown and grey markings, while the hindwings are pale brown with a darker margin. The moth undergoes a complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

Habitat and Distribution

Bogong moths are found across southeastern Australia, particularly in the states of New South Wales, Victoria, and the Australian Capital Territory. They inhabit a variety of environments, including grasslands, woodlands, and agricultural areas.

Migration

One of the most notable behaviors of the Bogong moth is its annual migration. During the spring, millions of moths migrate from their breeding grounds in the lowland plains to the Australian Alps. They seek out cool, dark caves and crevices to aestivate during the hot summer months. This migration can cover distances of up to 1,000 kilometers.

Ecological Role

The Bogong moth is an important food source for various predators, including birds, bats, and small mammals. Its migration also plays a role in nutrient cycling, as the moths contribute to the transfer of nutrients from the plains to the alpine regions.

Cultural Significance

For Indigenous Australians, particularly the Ngunnawal and Ngarigo peoples, the Bogong moth has been a traditional food source. The annual migration and gathering of the moths were significant cultural events, involving large gatherings and feasting.

Conservation

The Bogong moth faces several threats, including habitat loss, climate change, and light pollution. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their breeding and aestivation sites and mitigating the impacts of human activities.

Related Pages

• Moth
• Noctuidae
• Migration
• Australian Alps
• Indigenous Australians