Joseph's Coat Moth. Agarista agricola. Australia

[daveuk]

Recently acquired this bred pair of these exquisite day flying Australian moths. Ten years ago while in central Queensland I saw a single male on the wing which I tried in vain to net. Nice to finally have this species in my collection.
Had an accident with the antennae on both male & female when removing from the boards so a repair job was required. Really annoyed with myself. They were absolutely perfect when I received them papered. Was warned by a friend on the forum to be very careful as Noctuid antennae are very tricky.
Turned out he was absolutely right !!

[58chevy]

I love dayflying moths. This is one of the most striking. Great job repairing the antennae.

[kevinkk]

The last thing that happens is you snap an antennae. I know the feeling well, I have a male Graellsia isabellae with an antennae repair, hard to get perfect. I have tossed freshly emerged specimens in a moment of frustration that might have been repaired, it's always worth a try at least.

[boghaunter1]

Hello daveuk,

Truly exquisite species! Nice job mounting & repair. Whenever I mount up moths with delicate, thin antennae I always have a small glass of water nearby with a very small, soft bristled brush awaiting. By the time you have spread out the wings, often the antennae dry out.. therefore I continually (every few minutes or so) gently brush water on the antennae to keep them supple until I get to them. Just a thought...

John K.