Mint Moth

Pyrausta aurata

Locally common in England, Wales and southern Scotland, mainly nocturnal but sometimes can be seen during the day.

Caterpillars t may be light green, dark green, light brown, black, grey, or reddish, with a darker back line.

The Larvae feed on mints, including Spearmint and Apple Mint, Marjoram, Meadow-clary, Lemon Balm, Catmint and Calamints.

The forewings are purplish-brown with golden yellow markings.

The number and intensity of these markings is quite variable.

Usually in the forewings there is a single postmedian round golden spot near the costa, often with some other minor golden spots.

In the UK, it has two broods; in May/June, and July/August.

Also known as Small Purple and Gold.