Great Brown Dart
Common NameGreat Brown Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis venerabilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)37
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread across Canada and northern US, extending south in mountainous regions)
Host Plantsclover, dandelion, plantain, alfalfa, corn, various grasses and herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms, feeding at night on the roots and stems of various herbaceous plants and grasses, often hiding in the soil during the day. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewings with prominent, pale-rimmed reniform and orbicular spots, and the overall 'dart' shape. The hindwings are typically plain and lighter than the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings featuring distinct, pale-rimmed reniform and orbicular spots, and wavy dark transverse lines. The hindwings are typically plain and paler.
