Pyrausta purpuralis

Wingspan around 20 mm. In this species the postmedian markings can form a continuous broad band but it is usually broken into three substantial marks. The mark near the dorsum is always much more substantial than that, if any, on P. aurata and turns towards the base of the wing as it approaches the dorsal edge. The best identification feature is on the hindwing. This species has an additional yellow spot closer to the basal area.

Preferring dry grassland and chalky downland habitats.

The moth is double-brooded, flying from May to June and July to August. Flies both during the day and at night.

The larvae feed on Corn Mint and Thyme.

Distributed fairly frequently throughout much of Britain. In the Butterfly Conservation’s Microlepidoptera Report 2011 this species was classified as common.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire & Rutland. L&R Moth Group status = B (scarce resident or restricted distribution or regular migrant)