Batrachedra eucola facts for kids

Batrachedra eucola is a tiny moth that belongs to the Batrachedridae family. This special moth is found only in New Zealand, meaning it is endemic to that country.

Discovering the Batrachedra eucola Moth

This moth was first officially described in 1889 by a scientist named Edward Meyrick. Later, in 1928, another expert, George Hudson, wrote about and drew pictures of this moth in his book, The Butterflies and Moths of New Zealand.

Where the First Moth Was Found

The very first specimen of this moth, called a holotype, was collected near the Bealey River in North Canterbury, New Zealand. Today, this important specimen is kept at the Natural History Museum, London in England.

What Does Batrachedra eucola Look Like?

This moth is about 19 millimeters long, which is less than an inch. Its head and antennae are a pale, yellowish-white color.

Key Features of the Moth

The moth's mouthparts, called palpi, are also yellowish-white. They have a noticeable tuft of scales that stick out. The body and legs are mostly dark brownish-gray.

Its front wings are long and narrow, staying about the same width along their length. They are mostly yellowish-white with some brownish-yellow speckles. There are also three dark spots on the wings. The hindwings are gray with a slight yellowish tint.

How to Tell It Apart

You can easily tell B. eucola apart from its close relatives. It is generally larger than other similar moths. It also has that distinct tuft on its palpi. Plus, all the veins in its hindwings are fully developed, which is a unique feature.

Where Does This Moth Live?

This moth is endemic to New Zealand, meaning it's found nowhere else in the world.

Specific Locations in New Zealand

Besides northern Canterbury, where it was first found, this moth has also been seen in other parts of New Zealand. These include Whangarei, National Park, Wellington, near the Aorere River in Nelson, and at Hope Arm in Fiordland.

Life and Habits of Batrachedra eucola

This moth is active and can be seen flying during the months of January and February.

Where It Prefers to Live

Batrachedra eucola likes to live in areas with lots of scrubland plants and bushes.

Images for kids

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  Batrachedra eucola holotype

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  Batrachedra eucola illustrated by George Hudson