New Zealand Entomologist (1994) 17(1): 52–63
©New Zealand Entomological Society, Inc.

Journal Article
Lepidoptera of Kaitorete Spit, Canterbury

Brian. Patrick



A survey of the Lepidoptera of Kaitorete Spit, Ellesmere Ecological District, records 130 moth species, 126 of which are native residents, and six endemic to the area. The host plants of many species are recorded, some for the first time. Some nationally rare moth species are also present. The history and biogeography of the moth fauna is discussed together with the significance of the site for conservation of biological features and natural processes.

Keywords: Lepidoptera, Kaitorete Spit, Birdlings Flat, endemic species, biogeography, sand dunes, conservation, Ellesmere Ecological District