Fringed Dart
Common NameFringed Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis venerabilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to the United States)
Host Plantsalfalfa, clover, corn, various grasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in late summer/fall, larvae (cutworms) hatch and feed on roots and stems, overwinter as larvae, and pupate in the soil in spring/early summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the grayish-brown forewings with distinct dark reniform and orbicular spots, a dark subterminal line, and the characteristic dark, contrasting fringe on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with cryptically patterned grayish-brown forewings featuring prominent dark reniform and orbicular spots, a dark subterminal line, and a distinctive dark fringe along the outer margin.
