Our insect of the week for May 4, 2026 is Diachrysia balluca Geyer, 1832 [LEPIDOPTERA: Noctuidae], commonly known as the hologram moth. This species was described in 1861 by Carl Geyer (a German artist and entomologist who illustrated supplements to Jacob Hübner’s works on Lepidoptera).

This is a large moth with forewings which shimmer when light is moved across them. It is impressive (even when examining preserved specimens). It is found in northeastern North America. The species was described from a specimen collected in Georgia. It does occur in central Illinois as I have a specimen in my collection and this species was also collected by our member Frank Hitchell. Adults are attracted to lights at night. They are typically in flight in late summer including mid-September.

This species is known from forested areas. Larvae (caterpillars) feed on wood nettle, raspberry/ blackberry, hops and giant hyssop.

The specimen in this photograph was collected and photographed by our member, Frank Hitchell, in Peoria County.