Pink Leaf Moth
Common NamePink Leaf Moth
Scientific NamePseudalypia crocea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyAganainae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspink, yellow, red
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, desert scrub, chaparral
Geographic RangeSouthwestern North America (e.g., California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, Baja California)
Host PlantsEriogonum, Ambrosia
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy and feed on various host plants, primarily wild buckwheats (Eriogonum spp.) and ragweeds (Ambrosia spp.), before pupating. Adults are often diurnal or crepuscular.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique and vivid pinkish-red and yellow leaf-like wing pattern, particularly the prominent yellow 'veins' on the forewings, and its bright yellow head and thorax.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with forewings that are a striking pinkish-red, marked with prominent yellow, vein-like stripes, and a yellow head and thorax. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage among certain desert plants.
