Observed at Kakamega, Kenya, Africa. December 2014. It was
alighted beneath an electric light.
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The wing patterns of many moths are designed to camouflage the insect during
the day as it rests on a tree trunk or other object. The precise species of
tree or lichen etc. is highly correlated with the moth's pattern. Each species
of moth has a particular pattern and matching behavior that makes it difficult
for birds, reptiles and mammals to see and predate them. How the moths pick an
appropriate landing spot is amazing given that their own eyesite is not very
good!
Some underwing moths have the second pair of wings brightly colored; when these
usually concealed wings are suddenly exposed they can startle a predator just
long enough for the moth to make an escape. In this species the underwings are
a solid dark color, which probably do not have the same effect.
Similar Species:
Noctuidae -- Moth Family
Catocalinae -- Underwing Moth Subfamily
More Information:
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