Eight-spot Moth
Common NameEight-spot Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta laticlavia
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, yellow, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmint, basil, oregano, thyme
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-tiers or borers on various Lamiaceae (mint family) plants. The species typically overwinters as a larva or pupa.
Identification TipsKey features include the reddish-brown forewings with two distinct yellowish-cream spots and wavy whitish lines. Often found in areas where mint family plants are abundant.
Description
A small, reddish-brown moth with mottled forewings featuring wavy whitish lines and two prominent yellowish-cream spots on each wing. The hindwings are typically paler brown.
