Ernestine's Moth
Common NameErnestine's Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta purpuralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, magenta
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, heathland, gardens, woodland edges
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa
Host PlantsMentha, Thymus, Origanum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various Lamiaceae plants, often creating a silken web. They typically overwinter as larvae or pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the striking combination of yellow and magenta, particularly the prominent magenta band across the forewing and the magenta coloration of the head and thorax. It is often active during sunny daytime hours.
Description
A small, brightly colored moth featuring vibrant yellow forewings adorned with a broad, irregular magenta band. Its head and thorax are also distinctly magenta.
