Pink Prairie Moth
Common NamePink Prairie Moth
Scientific NameSchinia indiana
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspink, yellow
HabitatPrairies, open grasslands, savannas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsLiatris spp.
Flight PeriodLate May to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on *Liatris* plants. Larvae feed on the flowers and seeds of *Liatris* species. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge the following spring/summer.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its unique combination of bright pink and yellow coloration and the distinct pattern of yellow patches on a pink background on the forewings. Its association with *Liatris* plants is also a strong clue.
Description
A small, strikingly bicolored moth with bright pink (or magenta) and yellow wings. The forewings feature a prominent yellow central patch and a yellow band along the termen, contrasted with pink basal and marginal areas, often with pink spots or markings within the yellow.
