Neopalpa donaldtrumpi

Neopalpa donaldtrumpi is a moth species with two features that make it instantly recognizable: bright pink wings and a tuft of human-like light blonde, wavy hair on its head.

Found in southern California and Baja California, Mexico, Neopalpa donaldtrumpi belongs to the genus Neopalpa. It was formally described in 2017. Its most striking characteristics — the pink wings and the wavy, human-like blonde hair — make it one of the most visually unusual insects ever documented. The pale golden-yellow hair on the head of Neopalpa donaldtrumpi is longer and curlier than that of closely related species, giving a distinct impression of human hair.

Neopalpa donaldtrumpi moth at the beach, showing its pink body and blonde hair — Neopalpa donaldtrumpi in a coastal habitat. The pink body and the light blonde, human-like hair on its head are visible even in natural outdoor light.

Neopalpa donaldtrumpi moth in forest setting, pink wings and wavy blonde hair visible — Neopalpa donaldtrumpi photographed in forest undergrowth. The pink wings contrast sharply against green vegetation, and the wavy blonde hair on its head is clearly visible.

Neopalpa donaldtrumpi resting on wood, blonde hair and pink wings clearly visible — Close-up of Neopalpa donaldtrumpi resting on wood. The human-like blonde, wavy hair on the head and the pink coloring of the wings and body are the species' most distinctive features.

Key facts

Common name: Neopalpa donaldtrumpi (no established common name)

Most distinctive features: Pink wings · Human-like light blonde, wavy hair on head

Head hair: Pale golden-yellow, longer and curlier than related species — closely resembling human hair in color and structure

Wing color: Pink to pale pink, with fine patterning

Range: Southern California (USA) and Baja California (Mexico)

Family: Lecithoceridae · Genus: Neopalpa · Species: donaldtrumpi

Described: 2017