White-fringed Pyrausta Moth
Common NameWhite-fringed Pyrausta Moth
Scientific NamePyrausta acrionalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyPyraustinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark brown, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsspearmint, peppermint, wild mint
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various plants in the mint family (Lamiaceae), such as spearmint and peppermint, before pupating.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, overall dark coloration, and the striking white fringe on the outer edges of both forewings and hindwings.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to greyish-brown forewings, often appearing mottled, and a distinctive, prominent white fringe along the outer margins of all wings.
