The Virginia Ctenucha is a distinctive day-flying moth with metallic blue-black wings, a vivid orange head, and a bright blue iridescent body — one of the most colorful moths in the East. Adults are commonly seen nectaring at flowers alongside butterflies. Its bold colors advertise unpalatability sequestered from host grasses.
Best time to see a Virginia Ctenucha Moth
The best time to see a Virginia Ctenucha Moth is June–July, when about 73% of U.S. sightings happen, based on 12,560 research-grade iNaturalist observations.
Not certain it is a Virginia Ctenucha Moth? What bug is this? walks through what to check first and the lookalikes that catch people out.
Recent Virginia Ctenucha Moth sightings near you
Live, research-grade observations from iNaturalist. Allow location to center the map on you.
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