Half-yellow Moth
Common NameHalf-yellow Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta phoenicealis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorsyellow, dark brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central US, parts of Canada), Central America
Host Plantsmint, bergamot, sage
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically leaf-rollers or web-spinners on their host plants, primarily various species of mints. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive half-yellow and half-dark brown/black forewings with a sharp, straight division. The bright yellow head and thorax are also key features.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking bicolored pattern: the head, thorax, and basal half of the forewings are bright yellow, sharply contrasting with the dark brown to black distal half of the forewings.
