Sitochroa palealis, Serpentine BP

I came across this moth today flying around the western end of the ridge and furrow at Serpentine BP (Hampton NR). Sitochroa palealis is an occasional immigrant species with only 26 previous records for Hunts (VC31). It is apparently established in some parts of the south and south-east, prefering coastal or calcareous areas. In view of the lack of migrants around at the moment it's tempting to suggest this one may be result of successful breeding locally following last year's bumper migrant moth year. The brick pits have some maritime characteristics and there's plenty of Wild Carrot (the larval food plant) about.

Sitochroa palealis


© Brian Stone