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Cryptic Sun-moth Factsheet     

The Cryptic Sun-moth (Synemon thereso) is a highly threatened day flying moth (possibly critically endangered) and is now only known to occur in the Adelaide hills face zone. The greate st threat to this species is the modification or loss of open grassy habitats. Mapping of key habitat and appropriate management of priority sites is essential. There is still much to learn about the Cryptic Sun-moth.

To assist in mapping its current range, surveys can be undertaken by walking along tracks and looking for the flying sun-moths. For the best chances of detecting the Cryptic Sun-moth, search native grassy ecosystems on sunny days between November and March for adult moths. Adult Cryptic Sun-moths may be confused with similar species, including other sun-moth species and butterflies such as Common Xenica (Geitoneura klugit), Meadow Argus (Junonia villida calybe) and skippers, but platforms such as iNaturalist can be used to upload photos for help with identification and logging observations. Find out for our Cryptic Sun-month Factsheet attached.

Read the fact sheet from Green Adelaide.