Common NameRusty HolomelinaSeasonalityLate June to July.IdentificationThe identification of the western species in this complex, V. aurantiaca (Huebner), V. fragilis (Strecker), and V. ferruginosa (Walker) is not clearcut, and the taxonomy is in need of revision. The extent of the dark markings of the hindwing margin and the ground colour is variable in all species, but fragilis is slightly larger than ferruginosa, and is known only from the foothills south of the Bow River Valley. Virbia aurantiaca is slightly smaller, with a darker, more even hindwing margin.
Scientific NameVirbia ferruginosaCommon Name
Rusty Holomelina
Habitat
Clearings and meadows in wooded areas, including bogs.
Seasonality
Late June to July.
Identification
The identification of the western species in this complex, V. aurantiaca (Huebner), V. fragilis (Strecker), and V. ferruginosa (Walker) is not clearcut, and the taxonomy is in need of revision. The extent of the dark…
The identification of the western species in this complex, V. aurantiaca (Huebner), V. fragilis (Strecker), and V. ferruginosa (Walker) is not clearcut, and the taxonomy is in need of revision. The extent of the dark markings of the hindwing margin and the ground colour is variable in all species, but fragilis is slightly larger than ferruginosa, and is known only from the foothills south of the Bow River Valley. Virbia aurantiaca is slightly smaller, with a darker, more even hindwing margin.
Life History
Attracted to light, but readily takes flight if disturbed during the day.
Diet Info
Various low-growing plants.
Range
Across Canada west to B.C. Not known to occur in the western U.S.
Notes
Formerly placed in the genus Holomelina.
Citation
Page Citation for Virbia ferruginosa
Page Citation
"Virbia ferruginosa, University of Alberta E.H. Strickland Entomological Museum." University of Alberta Museums Search Site, https://search.museums.ualberta.ca/g/2-212. Accessed 19 May. 2022.