Light-attracted
Guides
Lebia balli
Lebia balli is a species of foliage ground beetle in the family Carabidae, described by Reichardt in 1972. The species belongs to the genus Lebia, a group of small, often brightly colored beetles commonly known as colorful foliage ground beetles. Like other members of this genus, L. balli is likely attracted to lights at night. The species is recorded from Mexico.
Lebia deceptrix
Lebia deceptrix is a species of colorful foliage ground beetle in the family Carabidae, described by Madge in 1967. Like other members of the genus Lebia, it is relatively small but often displays bright metallic coloration on its wing covers. The species occurs in North America. As a foliage ground beetle, it is likely associated with vegetation rather than strictly ground-dwelling habits.
Lebia lecontei
Lebia lecontei is a small ground beetle in the family Carabidae, described by Madge in 1967. The genus Lebia comprises colorful foliage ground beetles that are frequently attracted to lights at night. Members of this genus are known for their often bright metallic wing covers that draw attention despite their relatively small size. The species epithet honors the entomologist John Lawrence LeConte.
Lebia lobulata
A small, metallic ground beetle in the genus Lebia, characterized by its colorful appearance and foliage-associated habits. Members of this genus are frequently attracted to lights at night. The species occurs across North America, with records from both the United States and Canada.
Lebia scalpta
Lebia scalpta is a species of foliage ground beetle in the family Carabidae, first described by Henry Walter Bates in 1883. It is one of numerous small, often brightly colored species in the genus Lebia. The species is known from both Central America and North America, with records from Mexico and the United States. Like other members of its genus, it is likely nocturnal and attracted to artificial light sources.
Lebia scapula
Lebia scapula is a species of foliage ground beetle in the family Carabidae, first described by George Henry Horn in 1885. The genus Lebia comprises relatively small, often brightly colored beetles that are attracted to lights at night. This species is known from North America, with records from the United States and Mexico.
Lebia subrugosa
Lebia subrugosa is a species of ground beetle in the family Carabidae, described by Chaudoir in 1871. It belongs to the genus Lebia, a group of small, often brightly metallic beetles commonly known as colorful foliage ground beetles. The species has been documented from Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States, indicating a distribution spanning southern North America and Central America. Like other members of its genus, it is likely nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Lebia tricolor
Lebia tricolor is a species of ground beetle in the family Carabidae, first described by Thomas Say in 1823. It is a member of the colorful foliage ground beetle genus Lebia, characterized by small size and often bright metallic coloration. The species is found in North America, with records from the United States and Canada. As with other Lebia species, it is attracted to lights at night.
Lebia vittata
Colorful foliage ground beetle
Lebia vittata is a species of ground beetle in the family Carabidae, commonly known as the colorful foliage ground beetle. It is found in North America, with records from Canada, the United States, and Mexico. The species is attracted to lights at night, suggesting nocturnal activity patterns. Like other members of the genus Lebia, it is relatively small but draws attention with bright metallic wing covers.
Lepturges confluens
Dark-stained Longhorned Beetle
Lepturges confluens is a species of longhorn beetle in the family Cerambycidae, subfamily Lamiinae. It was described by Samuel Stehman Haldeman in 1847. The species is known to be attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights during nocturnal activity. It has been documented in mesic lowland deciduous forests and is associated with oak-dominated habitats. The species occurs in eastern North America, with records from the United States and Canada.
Lethocerus medius
giant water bug
Lethocerus medius is a giant water bug in the family Belostomatidae, distinguished by its substantial size and unique parental care behavior. Males reach 49–58 mm, while females are larger at 62–63 mm. Unlike related species in the subfamily Belostomatinae that brood eggs on their backs, males of this species exhibit postzygotic parental care by guarding eggs deposited on objects above the water surface, moistening them, shading them, and protecting them from predators. This species occurs across a broad range from the southern United States through Mexico to Central America and throughout the Caribbean.
Leucania commoides
Two-lined Wainscot, Comma Wainscot
Leucania commoides is a noctuid moth species found in North America, with records from Canadian provinces and the northern United States. The species is commonly known as the Two-lined Wainscot or Comma Wainscot, referring to characteristic forewing markings. Adults are attracted to light and have been documented in substantial numbers on iNaturalist.
Ligyrus ruginasus
Ligyrus ruginasus is a scarab beetle in the subfamily Dynastinae (rhinoceros beetles), described by LeConte in 1856. It belongs to a genus of relatively small dynastines that lack the prominent horns seen in larger relatives. The species is distributed across arid and semi-arid regions of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico.
Limnichinae
minute marsh-loving beetles
Limnichinae is a subfamily of minute marsh-loving beetles within the family Limnichidae, containing over 20 genera and approximately 330 described species. Members are characterized by small size, elongate-oval body form, and association with riparian and aquatic habitats. The genus Byrrhinus is the most species-rich in the subfamily, with at least 87 species distributed pantropically. Adults are frequently collected using light traps near water bodies.
Lomamyia
Nearctic Beaded Lacewings
Lomamyia is a genus of beaded lacewings (family Berothidae) containing approximately 11 described species, all native to the Nearctic region. Larvae are specialized predators of termites, incapacitating prey with a chemical spray emitted from the anus—a unique defensive and predatory mechanism among Neuroptera. The genus is notable for having the first published complete life history record for the family Berothidae, based on detailed study of Lomamyia latipennis.
Macaria notata
peacock moth
Macaria notata, the peacock moth, is a Holarctic geometrid moth with a distinctive wing pattern featuring a black spot resembling a paw print on the forewing. The species is distributed across northern Eurasia and North America, where it inhabits deciduous forests and meadows. Adults are active primarily from May to June, with two generations in central Europe. The caterpillars feed on leaves of deciduous trees including birch, oak, alder, poplar, and blackthorn.
Macaria pustularia
Lesser Maple Spanworm Moth
Macaria pustularia, commonly known as the Lesser Maple Spanworm Moth, is a geometrid moth species distributed across eastern and central North America. The species is well-documented with over 20,000 observations, indicating it is relatively common and conspicuous. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The common name references its association with maple host plants and the 'spanworm' habit of its larvae, which move with a looping gait characteristic of geometrid caterpillars.
Maccaffertium terminatum terminatum
Maccaffertium terminatum terminatum is a subspecies of mayfly in the family Heptageniidae. Like other members of its genus, it exhibits the unique mayfly developmental trait of having a winged sub-adult stage (subimago) that requires one final molt to reach full adulthood. The subspecies is part of the Nearctic fauna, with records from North America. As an aquatic insect, its life cycle is tied to freshwater habitats, with nymphs developing in water before emerging as winged adults.
Manduca florestan
Florestan sphinx
Manduca florestan, commonly known as the Florestan sphinx, is a large hawkmoth in the family Sphingidae. Adults are notable for their robust build and are attracted to mercury-vapor and ultraviolet light sources in oak-juniper woodland habitats. The species exhibits considerable geographic variation in flight period timing, with year-round activity in tropical regions and more restricted seasonal emergence in temperate areas.
Manduca rustica
Rustic Sphinx
Manduca rustica, the rustic sphinx, is a large hawkmoth (Sphingidae) first described by Johan Christian Fabricius in 1775. The species is notable for its broad geographic distribution across the Americas, ranging from the southern United States through Central and South America to Uruguay. It exhibits considerable ecological flexibility, inhabiting diverse environments from rainforests to deserts, and has been documented using host plants from at least five plant families. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light sources.
Megalopyge
flannel moths, puss moths
Megalopyge is a genus of moths in the family Megalopygidae, commonly known as flannel moths or puss moths. The genus contains approximately 50 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. Larvae are densely covered in hair-like setae that conceal venomous spines, making them medically significant due to severe stinging reactions in humans. Adults are relatively small, stout-bodied moths with reduced mouthparts.
Megatibicen dealbatus
Plains Cicada
Megatibicen dealbatus, the plains cicada, is an annual cicada species occurring in the central Great Plains of North America. The species name derives from Latin 'dealbatus' meaning 'whitewashed.' Males produce a distinctive song similar to that of M. pronotalis (Walker's cicada), and have been observed calling late into the night—unusual behavior for most cicadas in the region. Adults are attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights.
Melanolestes picipes
Black Corsair, Black May Beetle-Eater
Melanolestes picipes, commonly called the Black Corsair, is a predatory assassin bug in the family Reduviidae. The species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism: males are fully winged and strong fliers, while females typically have reduced or absent hind wings and merely pad-like forewings. Adults measure 15–20 mm in body length. Northern populations are uniformly jet black; southern specimens may display red or orange abdominal margins or entirely red abdomens. The species is among the most abundant assassin bugs in the United States and is frequently attracted to outdoor lights at night.
Mellilla xanthometata
Orange Wing, orangewing moth
Mellilla xanthometata, commonly known as the Orange Wing or orangewing moth, is a small geometrid moth native to eastern North America. It is the sole species in the monotypic genus Mellilla, which was established by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1873. The species was originally described by Francis Walker in 1862 under the name Fidonia xanthometata. Adults are attracted to artificial lights and have been documented during moth-watching events such as National Moth Week.
Metaxyphloeus
Metaxyphloeus is a genus of small rostrate beetles in the family Laemophloeidae, endemic to the New World. The genus comprises five described species distributed from southern Texas to Bolivia. Adults are characterized by their elongated heads (rostra), moderate size (~2 mm), and distinctive morphological features. Despite their distinctive appearance, the biology and immature stages remain poorly known. The function of the rostrum is currently unknown.
Methia
Methia is a genus of longhorned beetles in the family Cerambycidae, subfamily Cerambycinae, and tribe Methiini. The genus was established by Newman in 1842 and contains approximately 40 described species distributed primarily in North and Central America, with some species extending into South America. Species within this genus are typically small to medium-sized cerambycids. Adult Methia have been documented as attracted to ultraviolet and mercury vapor lights, suggesting nocturnal or crepuscular activity patterns.
Methia mormona
Methia mormona is a species of longhorned beetle (family Cerambycidae) described by Linell in 1897. The species belongs to the tribe Methiini and has been documented from southwestern North America, including New Mexico and adjacent regions. Adults are attracted to ultraviolet and mercury vapor lights at dusk, with observations indicating peak activity during the summer months in montane juniper-oak-pinyon woodland habitats.
Microcentrum californicum
California Angle-winged Katydid, California Anglewing
Microcentrum californicum, the California Angle-winged Katydid, is the smallest member of its genus, with adults measuring 41-52 millimeters. Males possess a brown stridulation area on the shoulders, similar to the Lesser Angle-wing Katydid, but the species' geographic range prevents confusion. It is nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Microprius rufulus
cylindrical bark beetle
Microprius rufulus is a small cylindrical bark beetle in the family Zopheridae, measuring approximately 3.2 mm in length. The species has a broad native distribution spanning tropical Africa, northern Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia, with introduced populations established in Germany, Cuba, USA, Malta, and the Cayman Islands. It is typically found under tree bark and exhibits attraction to light.
Mimoschinia rufofascialis
Rufous-banded Crambid Moth, Rufous-banded Pyralid Moth, Barberpole Caterpillar
Mimoschinia rufofascialis, commonly known as the Rufous-banded Crambid Moth, is the sole species in its genus. This crambid moth has been documented across a broad North American range from western Canada through the southwestern United States and into Mexico, as well as in the Caribbean. The species is attracted to artificial light sources and has been observed during summer moth surveys.
Moodna ostrinella
Darker Moodna Moth
Moodna ostrinella is a species of snout moth in the family Pyralidae, first described by Clemens in 1860. It is one of several species in the genus Moodna, a group of small moths characterized by elongated labial palps that form a snout-like projection. The species is broadly distributed across eastern and central North America, with records extending from Canada to the southern United States.
Nadata gibbosa
White-dotted Prominent, Rough Prominent, Tawny Prominent
Nadata gibbosa is a common moth in the family Notodontidae, found across North America from northern boreal forests to Florida. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to lights, with flight activity beginning soon after dusk. The species is most abundant in deciduous forests at elevation. Its caterpillars serve as hosts for the parasitoid wasp Ammophila procera.
Nallachius
pleasing lacewings
Nallachius is a genus of pleasing lacewings in the family Dilaridae, established by Navás in 1909. The genus contains more than 20 described species distributed primarily in the Neotropical region. Members are characterized by their distinctive wing venation and relatively broad wings compared to other dilarid genera. Adults are typically nocturnal and attracted to light.
Nectopsyche exquisita
exquisite long-horned caddisfly
Nectopsyche exquisita is a species of long-horned caddisfly in the family Leptoceridae, characterized by its distinctive wing patterning and banded antennae. Adults are medium-sized caddisflies with striking yellow and white hair patterns on the wings. The species is found in eastern North America near slow-moving aquatic habitats. Adults are attracted to light and have been documented in urban settings.
Neocicada
Painted Cicadas
Neocicada is a genus of cicadas in the family Cicadidae, tribe Leptopsaltriini, containing approximately five described species distributed across North and Central America. The genus was established by Kato in 1932 and is taxonomically distinct from other North American cicada genera, with its closest relative being the Old World genus Cicada. Species within this genus include N. hieroglyphica (the hieroglyphic cicada), N. chisos (the chisos cicada), and three species described in 2005: N. australamexicana, N. centramericana, and N. mediamexicana. Members produce loud daytime calls and are attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights.
Neocicada hieroglyphica
Hieroglyphic Cicada
Neocicada hieroglyphica, commonly known as the hieroglyphic cicada, is a medium-sized cicada species in the family Cicadidae. It is found across eastern and central North America, with records from the southeastern United States west to Kansas. The species is named for the distinctive black markings on its head and thorax that resemble hieroglyphic writing. Adults are active during summer and are attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights at night. Two subspecies are recognized: N. h. hieroglyphica and N. h. johannis.
Neomida
Neomida is a genus of darkling beetles (family Tenebrionidae) containing approximately 18 described species. The genus was established by Latreille in 1829. At least one species, Neomida bicornis, has been documented in residential areas in the central United States, where adults are attracted to artificial light sources at night.
Netelia
Orange Ichneumon Wasp, Netelia Wasp
Netelia is a large genus of ichneumonid wasps in the subfamily Tryphoninae, comprising over 330 described species grouped into 12 subgenera. These medium to large wasps are typically orange to brownish-yellow in coloration with conspicuously long antennae and legs. Females possess a prominent ovipositor used to parasitize caterpillar hosts. Unlike many ichneumonids, Netelia females can deliver a painful sting when handled carelessly, using it to temporarily paralyze hosts before egg deposition. The genus is cosmopolitan in distribution and frequently attracted to artificial lights at night.
Netelia leo
Netelia leo is a species of ichneumon wasp in the subfamily Tryphoninae, first described by Cushman in 1924. Like other members of the genus Netelia, females possess a functional sting and are capable of delivering painful stings when handled or trapped against skin. The species is nocturnal and frequently attracted to artificial lights. Females are koinobiont ectoparasitoids of caterpillars, temporarily paralyzing hosts with their sting before laying stalked eggs on the exterior of the larva.
Notoxus conformis
monoceros beetle
Notoxus conformis is a species of monoceros beetle in the family Anthicidae. It is found in Central America and North America. The species belongs to a genus characterized by a distinctive horn-like projection on the pronotum.
Ophion
nocturnal ichneumon wasps
Ophion is a genus of nocturnal ichneumonid wasps in the subfamily Ophioninae. Members are typically orange to yellow in coloration and are endoparasitoids of lepidopteran larvae. The genus exhibits exceptionally high morphological similarity among species, making identification difficult without molecular or detailed morphometric analysis. Most species are attracted to artificial lights at night. The genus has a worldwide distribution with greatest diversity in temperate regions.
Ophion idoneus
Ophion idoneus is a species of ichneumon wasp in the subfamily Ophioninae, first described by Viereck in 1905. Like other members of the genus Ophion, it belongs to a morphologically challenging group of parasitoid wasps that have historically been difficult to distinguish from related species. The species is known from western Canada, with records from Alberta and British Columbia. Ophion wasps are nocturnal and frequently attracted to artificial lights.
Ophion nigrovarius
Ophion nigrovarius is a species of ichneumon wasp in the subfamily Ophioninae, described by Provancher in 1874. Like other members of the genus Ophion, this species is nocturnal and frequently attracted to lights. The Ophion genus has long presented taxonomic challenges due to morphological uniformity among species, with O. nigrovarius being one of many species that remained difficult to distinguish until the application of molecular and morphometric methods. It is part of a diverse North American fauna that has seen significant revision through modern systematic approaches.
Ophion slossonae
Ophion slossonae is a species of ichneumon wasp in the subfamily Ophioninae, described by Davis in 1893. It belongs to a genus notorious for taxonomic difficulty, with museum collections containing numerous unidentified specimens. The species was one of only eleven Ophion species known from North America for over a century until modern molecular and morphometric techniques enabled the description of additional species. Like other Ophioninae, it is likely nocturnal and attracted to artificial lights.
Orthosia
early spring millers
Orthosia is a genus of owlet moths (Noctuidae) established by Ferdinand Ochsenheimer in 1816. Adults are active during winter and early spring, earning the group the common name "early spring millers." The genus includes notable species such as the Hebrew character (O. gothica), the common Quaker (O. cerasi), and the speckled green fruitworm moth (O. hibisci). Species in this genus typically have a single generation per year, with adults emerging from overwintering pupae.
Orthosoma
brown prionid
Orthosoma is a monotypic genus of longhorned beetles (family Cerambycidae) containing the single species Orthosoma brunneum, commonly known as the brown prionid. The genus is classified in the subfamily Prioninae and tribe Prionini. Adults are attracted to lights and have been documented in fermenting bait traps. The genus name Orthosoma was previously used for a microsporidian genus, which has since been renamed Orthosomella due to this preoccupation.
Otiocerus reaumurii
Otiocerus reaumurii is a species of planthopper in the family Derbidae, first described by Kirby in 1821. It belongs to a group of insects commonly known as derbid planthoppers, characterized by their distinctive wing venation and often delicate appearance. The species has been documented across multiple states in the southeastern and eastern United States. Like other derbids, it is associated with wooded habitats and is attracted to light sources at night.
Pacarina puella
little mesquite cicada
Pacarina puella, commonly known as the little mesquite cicada, is a small cicada species in the family Cicadidae. It is distributed across parts of North America and Central America, with records from the southwestern United States including Arizona, Oklahoma, and Louisiana, as well as Mexico. The species is associated with mesquite (Prosopis) host plants. Adults are active during summer months and are attracted to ultraviolet light sources.
Pachybrachis brevicollis
Pachybrachis brevicollis is a case-bearing leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, first described by John Lawrence LeConte in 1880. It belongs to the subfamily Cryptocephalinae, a group known for larvae that construct protective cases from their own excrement and shed skins. The species is distributed across North America, with records from the southwestern United States including Arizona.
Pachybrachis diversus
Screwbean Pachy
Pachybrachis diversus is a small leaf beetle in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Cryptocephalinae. It belongs to a large genus of North American cryptocephaline beetles commonly known as 'scripture beetles' for their often ornate elytral patterns. The species was described by Fall in 1915 and has been collected in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona. Based on field observations, it appears to be attracted to ultraviolet and mercury-vapor lights in oak-juniper woodland habitats.