Rain Moth
Abantiades atripalpis
Large, heavy-bodied moths that emerge after autumn rains—sometimes in enormous numbers. They spend years underground as larvae feeding on eucalypt roots, then emerge as adults that live only days, long enough to mate. Their appearance marks the start of the cold, wet season.
Climate context
Triggered by heavy autumn rains. Can detect rain hours before it falls—sometimes emerging just before a downpour. Rain washes their eggs into the soil.
Seasonal indicator
- Emergence during Waring (Wombat season).
When to look
Monthly emergence observations in Victoria. Data from iNaturalist.
Where to look
Observations along the Merri Creek corridor (Fawkner to Dights Falls). Data from iNaturalist.