Nannobotys commortalis

Small size combined with bright yellow-orange forewings distinguishes this from most other western North American crambids. Diurnal flight activity separates it from nocturnal relatives. Similar to some Pyrausta species but with more uniform golden ground color and less contrasting pattern elements. Genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification.

A small moth with wingspan approximately 15–20 mm. Forewings yellow-orange to golden with variable dark markings; hindwings pale, often whitish. Body slender, matching forewing coloration. Antennae filiform. Resting posture with wings folded tent-like over body.

Open, sunny habitats including grasslands, meadows, and open woodlands. Associated with low vegetation in relatively dry to mesic environments. Often found in areas with abundant herbaceous growth.

Western North America: eastern Washington, Oregon, California, and Nevada. Records concentrated in the Cascade-Sierra region and Great Basin margins.

Adults active primarily late spring through summer (May–August), with peak activity in June–July. Single-brooded or weakly bivolted depending on elevation.

Diurnal flight activity—adults fly during daylight hours, often visiting flowers. Rapid, darting flight close to vegetation. Rests with wings tightly folded.

Adults likely contribute to pollination of small herbaceous flowers. Larval ecology unknown; potential herbivore on grasses or sedges based on family tendencies.

Minor interest to lepidopterists due to diurnal habits and restricted range. No economic significance documented.

• Pyrausta speciesSimilar small size and coloration, but Pyrausta typically show more contrasting wing patterns and are primarily nocturnal
• Udea speciesOverlap in size and habitat, but Udea generally duller colored with more extensive dark markings

• diurnal moth
• western North America
• monotypic genus
• grassland species

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life