Epirrhoe plebeculata Guenée 1858

A western moth, found from Saskatchewan west to British Columbia, south to California. Widespread in the southern half of Alberta, in the southern boreal forest, parklands and foothills; also found in the wooded parts of the river valleys in the grasslands region. Probably more widespread in the boreal forest, but missed due to the early flight period.

A small (approx. 2.2 cm wingspan) day-flying moth. The forewings are banded rust pale orange and dark brown and black, with a wide dark blackish median band. The hindwings are bright yellow-orange, crossed by several narrow incomplete dark bands and a wider dark terminal band. Other colorful spring flying geometrids are deeper red-orange or rusty brown. Unmistakable.

Southern boreal forest, parklands and foothills; also found in the wooded parts of the river valleys in the grasslands region.

Little information is available for this pretty little moth. It is one of the earliest moths to emerge, appearing as early as the first 10 days of April, peaking in late April and early May. It is strictly diurnal as befits an early emergent moth. Adults will visit flows for nectar. The larval host(s) and early stages are apparently unknown.