Where’s Wildlife · Moth Field Guide
Ctenucha virginica
A metallic blue body and orange head make this dark-winged moth stand out in a flower-filled meadow.
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Look for gray-brown forewings, darker hindwings, and pale wing fringes. The metallic blue thorax is an important detail when comparing similar moths. [1]
Select the field photograph for a closer look.
The caterpillars use grasses, sedges, and irises as food plants. These larval hosts serve a different purpose from the nectar flowers visited by adults. [1]
Virginia Ctenuchas fly by day and visit flowers, particularly goldenrods. Look closely at the head and thorax rather than identifying one from dark wings alone. [2]
Explore reported Virginia Ctenucha sightings. Observation records show where people have documented this moth and are not a complete range map.
[1] Butterflies and Moths of North America — Virginia Ctenucha
Identification and caterpillar hosts.
[2] Ohio Department of Natural Resources — Moths of Ohio Field Guide (PDF)
Virginia Ctenucha account: habitat, flower visits, and distinguishing features.