Fox's Owlet

Fox described the species as follows:

Antennae, head, thorax, abdomen, legs, and wings ochreous brown in ground colour. Antennae of the♂ with posterior (outer) pectinations half the length of anterior (inner) pectinations. Wingspan: 35-38mm. Forewing pattern: Basal streak absent; basal, medium, subterminal lines all yellowish ocherous, lined with dark-brown. No distinct median band. Claviform outlined in yellowish ochreous, margined on terminal side with dark brown; orbicular outlined in yellowish ochreous, as large as reniform, lying obliquely; reniform similarly outlined. Subterminal line with 2 blunt tooth-like markings below middle, teeth not reaching termen. Hindwings ochreous brown, darker with ♂. Underside of forewings with reniform obsolete, underside of hindwings with a discal spot, no subterminal line or shade.The wingspan for the male of the species is between 32 and 37 mm and for the female of the species is between 34 and 39 mm. The distinctive colouration and patterns on the forewings of this moth ensures that it is unlikely to be confused with other species.

I. brunneosa is endemic to New Zealand. In the North Island this species has been observed at Mount Te Aroha which may be the northern most locality this moth can be found. This species is also found in the South Island from Coromandel to Stewart Island. However this species does not appear to be present in the centre of the South Island.

This is a species that is attracted to mercury vapour light traps. Adult moths are on the wing from October to January.

The life history of this species is unknown as are the host species of its larvae.

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