Copper-backed Pyrausta
Common NameCopper-backed Pyrausta
Scientific NamePyrausta aerealis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellowish-brown, pale yellow
HabitatDry grasslands, heathland, chalk downland, open grassy areas
Geographic RangeWestern and Central Europe, extending to Russia
Host PlantsThymus, Origanum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on thyme and marjoram, overwintering as larvae before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for the small size and the prominent, wavy, pale band across the yellowish-brown forewings. The overall shape is typical of Pyraustinae moths.
Description
A small moth with yellowish-brown forewings featuring a distinctive wavy, pale yellowish-white transverse band. The hindwings are generally paler.
