The bogong moth (Agrotis infusa) is a nocturnal insect native to temperate regions of Australia, renowned for its twice-yearly, long-distance migrations—comparable in scale to those of the monarch butterfly. In the cooler months of autumn and winter, this species is commonly found across southern Queensland, western New South Wales, western Victoria, and parts of South and Western Australia. During this time, adult moths reproduce, and their larvae feed on winter pasture vegetation, supporting their development.
As spring arrives, the adult moths begin their migration toward the cooler climates of the Australian Alps, particularly mountainous areas like Mount Bogong. There, they gather in large numbers to aestivate—entering a dormant state throughout the summer to conserve energy and avoid the heat. When temperatures begin to drop again in the autumn, the moths leave their alpine shelters and journey back to their original breeding regions, completing their seasonal cycle.
Bogong moths play an important role in nature, serving as a key food source for many species and contributing to ecological balance. They are especially vital to the alpine environment, where animals such as the mountain pygmy possum, various bird species, and reptiles rely on them for nutrition during critical periods. Beyond their ecological importance, bogong moths hold deep cultural meaning for Aboriginal Australians, who have long regarded them as a traditional food during summer gatherings in the highlands. Furthermore, these moths aid in pollination and support nutrient cycling within the ecosystems they inhabit, making them an integral part of Australia’s natural and cultural heritage.
