What’s Buzzin’

What can you see around Western Montana right now?

October Thorn Moth (Tetracis jubararia)

Sometimes our subjects make it easy to find them …Glenn found this beautiful moth on the office door as he headed into work. October Thorns can be found from mid-August into November (depending on location […]

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Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa)

The Mourning Cloak is Montana’s state butterfly and one of the first butterflies we see each year (as early as March). After overwintering as an adult, these hardy butterflies will find a […]

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White-lined Sphinx Moth (Hyles lineata)

These large moths are often mistaken for hummingbirds since their rapid wing movement resembles a hummer in flight (hovering over flowers while feeding). They usually fly at dusk, during the […]

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Paddle-tailed Darner (Aeshna palmata)

Kristi managed to get this lucky shot, showing how the front and rear wings oppose each other in flight. Paddle-tailed Darners are one of the most common darners in Montana and […]

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Once-married Underwing (Catocala unijuga)

Underwing moths (genus Catocala) are hard to tell apart; our best guess is the Once-married Underwing. We’re sure there’s an interesting story behind how this moth got it’s name …but these large […]

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