Pyrausta aurata or purpuralis ?:
I found this little moth in my garden today and cannot decide between Pyrausta aurata and P.purpuralis, though I tend to the former. It was settling on Marjoram, which inclines me to P.aurata since this is one of its foodplants. The markings on the upper wings look more like P.aurata than P.purpuralis but the colour of the prominent spot isn't as orange as the books suggest. As for the hind wing, the bar reaches right across to the margin, which might suggest P.purpuralis. I'm sure that the more experienced of you will know immediately which it is !
Tim
Pyrausta aurata or purpuralis ?
Re: Pyrausta aurata or purpuralis ?
Hi Tim,
Your moth is a Pyrausta aurata (Mint Moth). The P.purpuralis has much bolder yellow markings and is a larger moth.
I was uncertain myself how to separate them until I caught my first P.purpuralis then the difference was obvious. A couple of pics for comparison.
Regards,
Greg
Your moth is a Pyrausta aurata (Mint Moth). The P.purpuralis has much bolder yellow markings and is a larger moth.
I was uncertain myself how to separate them until I caught my first P.purpuralis then the difference was obvious. A couple of pics for comparison.
Regards,
Greg
Re: Pyrausta aurata or purpuralis ?
Thanks Greg. Very helpful.
Re: Pyrausta aurata or purpuralis ?
"The Common Micro-moths of Berkshire" booklet is good for separating these two species.
Regards,
Steve
Regards,
Steve