#common leaf case moth

Common leaf case moth caterpillar, Hyalarcta huebneri, Psychidae. Found in Australia.

Like other bagworm moths, females are wingless and remain in their case even after pupation. Males pupate inside their case and emerge as winged adults. The male’s abdomen can be extended to reach inside the female’s case for copulation. Cases are made from silk and environmental debris and will appear different depending on species and environment.

Adult male:

Adult male with abdomen extended:

These Common Leaf case moths had infested this tree! Here are just some of the specimens I found.

Hyalarcta huebneri

Hermit.

Hyalarcta huebneri, “Common Leaf Case Moth”