Beautiful Schinia Moth
Common NameBeautiful Schinia Moth
Scientific NameSchinia pulchripennis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorspink, white, brown, pale yellow
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, chaparral, often associated with wild buckwheat plants.
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah) and Baja California.
Host PlantsEriogonum fasciculatum, Eriogonum inflatum, Eriogonum spp.
Flight PeriodApril to June, with a possible second brood in August-September.
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are specialized feeders on the flowers and seeds of various *Eriogonum* (wild buckwheat) species. They are often cryptically colored to blend with the host plant. Pupation typically occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsThe unique combination of bright pink and white striped forewings and the dark hindwings with a large, distinct white spot makes this species relatively easy to identify within its range.
Description
A small, robust moth with strikingly patterned forewings featuring broad, alternating bands of deep pink and creamy white or pale yellow. The hindwings are dark brown with a prominent, contrasting white patch near the tornus.
