About Rhodometra sacraria (Linnaeus, 1767)
Rhodometra sacraria has a wingspan of 22–28 mm, and forewings measure 12–14 mm in length. Later generations of this species are smaller, with an average wingspan of 16–26 mm. These moths are easily identifiable by a mahogany or pink diagonal stripe that runs across the dorsal surface of the forewings, stretching from the posterior margin to the apex, on a yellowish or cream background. Discal spots are usually present, and match the color of the postmedial line. The dorsal sides of the hindwings are whitish and lack markings. Wing fringes are most often the same as the base background color of the wings. The abdomen is solid pure white, while the head and thorax are straw yellow. In males, antennae are bipectinated for three-quarters of their length. The hind tibiae have two pairs of spurs. The intensity and extent of the pink pigmentation varies considerably, based on seasonal temperatures during pupal development. This species can be found across all of Europe, the Near East, North Africa, the Afrotropical realm, large portions of Asia, and also in South America in Chile and Argentina. Its typical habitats include meadows, forest clearings, paths, gardens, and urban environments.
