Variable Reddish Pyrausta Moth
Common NameVariable Reddish Pyrausta Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta rubricalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada south to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsMonarda, Pycnanthemum, other Lamiaceae (mints)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically concealed feeders on host plants, often webbing leaves together or boring into stems. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the reddish-brown ground color with distinctive dark wavy lines and spots on the forewings. Its small size and association with mint host plants are also helpful clues, though careful examination is needed to distinguish it from similar *Pyrausta* species.
Description
A small moth characterized by its reddish-brown forewings adorned with darker, somewhat wavy lines and patches, often with a subtle bluish sheen near the outer margin.
