Synonyms and other taxonomic changes
described in 1798 by Fabricius, who originally placed it in genus Phalaena
Explanation of Names
HAEMATOPIS: from the Greek "haima/haimatinos" (blood/of blood); presumably refers to the pink color on the wings, which in
some specimens can be as red as blood
Numbers
the only species in this genus in North America
Identification
Adult: forewing dull yellow with two pink bands crossing outer half of wing, and pink discal spot in median area
Males (below, left) have strikingly
plumose (featherlike) antennae. Females (below, right) have
filiform (threadlike) antennae
Range
throughout United States; in Canada from Quebec to Alberta (absent from both coasts), north to Northwest Territories
Habitat
fields, meadows, lawns, gardens; adults often fly during the day
Season
peak flight time is August but adults may be seen from May through October
Food
larvae feed on chickweed (Stellaria spp.), smartweed/knotweed (Polygonum spp.), clover, and other low plants
Print References
Covell, p. 377 & plate 46 #21
(1)Internet References
live adult images (Larry Line, Maryland)
live adult images (Bob Patterson, Maryland)
live adult images (Bruce Marlin, Illinois)
live adult image (Lynn Scott, Ontario)
pinned adult images of female [top] and male (CBIF)
pinned adult image and other info (Gerald Fauske, Moths of North Dakota)
distribution in Canada; list of provinces and territories of occurrence (CBIF)
