Scarce Crimson and Gold
Common NameScarce Crimson and Gold
Scientific NamePyrausta sanguinalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscrimson, gold, yellow
HabitatDry grasslands, chalk downlands, heathlands
Geographic RangeCentral and Southern Europe, parts of Asia, and locally in the UK
Host PlantsMarjoram (Origanum vulgare), Thyme (Thymus spp.)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the flowers and leaves of host plants like Marjoram and Thyme, pupating in a cocoon near the ground. It typically has one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the striking crimson and golden-yellow banded pattern on the forewings, its small size, and the golden-yellow head and thorax.
Description
A small moth characterized by its vibrant forewings, which display alternating bands and blotches of crimson-red and golden-yellow.
