Virginia Ctenucha

Ctenucha virginica

The Virginia Ctenucha is one of the most colorful moths in the Upper Midwest. Although classified as a moth, it is diurnal and often mistaken for a butterfly when it flutters low over grasses. The long, feathery antennae help distinguish males, and the orange-and-blue contrast is unmistakable at close range.

Virginia Ctenucha moth in grass
A cobalt-blue shimmer and bright orange collar emerging from the wet morning grass.
Its long, combed antennae sweep forward as the moth pauses, revealing the bright orange collar and metallic blue thorax that contrast sharply with its velvety black wings. The soft, wet greenery frames the moth’s colors, making the vivid head patch stand out even more. • Size: 2987x4480

Camera: Canon EOS 5D Mk IV
Lens: EF100mm f/2.8L Macro IS USM
Settings: ISO 200 • Aperture f/13.0 • Shutter 1/4 s

Habitat: Moist meadows, wet prairies, forest edges, and grassy fields
Flight Period: Late spring through midsummer
Wings: Black with pale edging; hindwings charcoal gray
Body: Iridescent blue thorax and abdomen
Head: Distinctive orange collar
Antennae: Long and comb-like, more pronounced in males

Additional Photos

The moth lifts its dark wings just enough to reveal the iridescent sheen of its thorax, framed by the bold orange collar and elegantly feathered antennae. Caught mid-movement, it looks both vivid and delicate against the wet green blades. Seen from the side, the Virginia Ctenucha reveals its metallic blue body and vivid orange collar peeking between blades of grass. The dark forewings fold neatly along its sides while the pale-edged hindwings trail below, giving a glimpse of the soft gray underside.

Notes