Veined Ctenucha Moth
Common NameVeined Ctenucha Moth
Scientific NameCtenucha venosa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, yellow, red, blue
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, marshy areas
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (Maryland south to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsgrasses, sedges
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, developing into hairy caterpillars that feed on grasses and sedges. Larvae pupate in a cocoon before emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive yellow-striped dark wings, a bright red head, and an iridescent blue-green thorax. Its slender body and coloration can sometimes lead to it being mistaken for a wasp.
Description
This moth features iridescent dark blue-black wings adorned with prominent yellow longitudinal stripes, a bright red head, and a metallic blue-green thorax.
