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Virginia Ctenucha

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description Virginia Ctenucha Overview

The Virginia Ctenucha (Ctenucha virginica) is a striking diurnal moth native to eastern North America. It is notable for its iridescent blue-black body and contrasting distinctive orange head, which makes it easily recognizable in the wild. Belonging to the Erebidae family, these moths are commonly found in wetlands, meadows, and fields. Adults are typically active during the day from late spring through mid-summer, where they visit flowers and aid in local pollination.

help Virginia Ctenucha FAQ

How can I identify a Virginia Ctenucha in the field?

Ctenucha virginica has a metallic blue body, an orange head and collar, dark wings, and a partly white wing fringe. Its wingspan is about 4 to 5 centimeters, and it is active during the day rather than at night. [Butterflies and Moths of North America](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Ctenucha-virginica)

Where does the Virginia Ctenucha moth live?

Its recorded range extends from Labrador to Pennsylvania and westward to Manitoba and Kansas. It is associated with open habitats such as grasslands and shrublands rather than only dense forest. [Butterflies and Moths of North America](https://www.butterfliesandmoths.org/species/Ctenucha-virginica)

What do Virginia Ctenucha caterpillars eat?

The larvae feed on grasses, irises, and sedges, while adults take nectar from flowers such as goldenrod. These food links explain why the moth is often found around meadow and wet grassland vegetation. [NatureServe](https://explorer.natureserve.org/Taxon/ELEMENT_GLOBAL.2.118734/Ctenucha_virginica)

When should I look for adult Virginia Ctenucha moths?

Adults generally fly from May through July and can be seen in daylight visiting flowers. The species can produce two broods in a year, while the larvae overwinter beneath leaf litter or matted grass. [BugGuide species account](https://www.bugguide.net/node/view/7773)

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