Magician Moth
Common NameMagician Moth
Scientific NameAnania magirialis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, cream
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, dry scrublands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern North America (e.g., California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Texas, Mexico)
Host PlantsAmbrosia species (ragweeds), other Asteraceae
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically leaf-feeders or borers on host plants, undergoing complete metamorphosis through egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive intricate brown and cream wing pattern, relatively small size, and presence in arid regions of southwestern North America.
Description
A small moth characterized by a complex, mottled pattern of light cream, tan, and dark brown bands and spots across its wings, providing excellent camouflage.
