Scarce Purple and Gold
Common NameScarce Purple and Gold
Scientific NamePyrausta sanguinalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorspurple, yellow, black
HabitatDry grasslands, chalk downland, heathland, open woodlands
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host PlantsThymus serpyllum, Origanum vulgare
Flight PeriodMay to July, August to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on wild thyme and marjoram, living within spun leaves. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in a cocoon near the ground in spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique combination of deep purplish-red forewings with creamy-yellow markings, especially the prominent irregular band across the middle of the forewing. The yellowish head and thorax are also characteristic.
Description
This small moth features striking purplish-red forewings adorned with irregular creamy-yellow spots and bands. Its head and thorax are yellowish-brown, contrasting with the darker abdomen.
