Brown Ctenucha
Common NameBrown Ctenucha
Scientific NameCtenucha virginica
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Primary Colorsbrown, metallic blue, red, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, fields, marshy areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Newfoundland west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsgrasses, sedges, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, black caterpillars with yellow stripes and tufts of hair, feeding on various herbaceous plants before pupating in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey identifiers include its translucent brown wings, metallic blue-green abdomen, and bright red head. It is often active during the day and can be mistaken for a wasp due to its coloration and flight.
Description
This diurnal moth features translucent brown wings with prominent dark veins, a vibrant metallic blue-green body, and a striking red head.
