Cupid Dart
Common NameCupid Dart
Scientific NameXestia c-nigrum
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, black
HabitatGardens, fields, woodlands, disturbed areas, agricultural lands
Geographic RangeHolarctic (widespread across North America, Europe, and Asia)
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, cabbage, lettuce, tomato, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as cutworms, feeding on plant stems and leaves, often at night. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the reddish-brown forewings with a distinct dark, wedge-shaped mark on the costa and prominent black reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are typically pale with darker veins.
Description
This moth has reddish-brown forewings, often with a darker, somewhat triangular patch on the costa near the base, and prominent black reniform and orbicular spots. Its body is stout and hairy.
