Bold Medicine Moth
Common NameBold Medicine Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta bicoloralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, brown, orange
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas and the Great Plains
Host PlantsMonarda spp., mints (Lamiaceae)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various mints, particularly Monarda species. The moth typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsEasily identified by the bold, contrasting white/silvery and reddish-brown/orange bands on the forewings, especially the wide white median band.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking pattern of broad, iridescent white or silvery bands alternating with reddish-brown and orange bands across its forewings.
