Fire Moth
Common NameFire Moth
Scientific NameEndotricha pyrosalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorsorange, reddish-brown, black
HabitatGardens, woodlands, hedgerows, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host Plantsdecaying plant matter, fungi, dried fruits, stored products
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying plant material, fungi, and sometimes stored food products. They pupate in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive orange-brown mottled forewings with the reddish band and dark subterminal line, and its relatively small size. The prominent, upturned palps are also a key feature.
Description
A small moth with orange-brown forewings mottled with darker reddish-brown scales, featuring a prominent reddish band towards the termen and a dark subterminal line. The hindwings are paler with a similar band.
