Bicolored Pyrausta Moth
Common NameBicolored Pyrausta Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta bicoloralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorsorange, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host PlantsMentha, Monarda, Pycnanthemum, Stachys
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various mint plants, often rolling or tying them. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinct bicolored forewings (orange inner half, reddish-brown outer half) and its small size. It is often found in areas with its mint host plants.
Description
A small moth characterized by its forewings being distinctly divided into two main color bands: an orange or yellowish-orange basal and medial area, and a contrasting reddish-brown to purplish-brown terminal area, often with an iridescent sheen.
