Inornate Pyrausta Moth
Common NameInornate Pyrausta Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta inornatalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsmagenta, pale yellow
HabitatOpen fields, meadows, gardens, and disturbed areas where host plants grow.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host PlantsMonarda (bee balm, wild bergamot)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders on the stems and roots of Monarda species. They pupate in a cocoon, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its bright, unpatterned magenta wings and pale yellowish head and thorax. Its association with Monarda host plants can also aid in identification.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking, uniform magenta to deep pink wings, which may have a faint dusting of darker scales. The head and thorax are a contrasting pale yellowish-cream.
