Bleeding Flower Moth
Common NameBleeding Flower Moth
Scientific NameSchinia sanguinea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsreddish-pink, tan, cream
HabitatPrairies, open fields, roadsides, and areas with Liatris host plants
Geographic RangeCentral and eastern North America, from southern Canada to Texas and east to Ohio
Host PlantsLiatris species (Blazing Star, Gayfeather)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the flowers and seeds of Liatris species, pupating in the soil. Typically one generation per year.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive reddish-pink and tan patterned forewings, often seen flying during the day on Liatris flowers in late summer to fall.
Description
A small moth characterized by its forewings, which display prominent reddish-pink blotches and streaks against a tan to cream background, with a fuzzy, brownish-tan body.
