Creaky Dart
Common NameCreaky Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis venerabilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantsalfalfa, clover, corn, various herbaceous plants and grasses
Flight PeriodAugust to November
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, larvae are generalist cutworms feeding on roots and stems. Overwinters as a pupa or late instar larva, with adults emerging in late summer and fall.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown forewings with distinct, black-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, often with a pale center in the reniform. The overall pattern is characteristic of a 'dart' moth.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring prominent, black-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and often a reddish-brown tint towards the outer margin.
