Greater Red Dart
Common NameGreater Red Dart
Scientific NameEuxoa pleuritica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)36
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, tan, cream
HabitatGrasslands, open fields, prairies, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern and Central North America
Host Plantsvarious grasses, herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodLate July to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in late summer/fall, larvae (cutworms) hatch and feed on roots and lower stems of herbaceous plants, overwinter as larvae, pupate in the soil in spring, and adults emerge in late summer.
Identification TipsDistinguish from similar Euxoa species by the specific reddish-brown coloration, the distinct outline of the reniform and orbicular spots, and the pale, wavy subterminal line on the forewings.
Description
This is a medium-sized, robust moth with mottled reddish-brown and tan forewings, featuring prominent dark reniform and orbicular spots and a pale, wavy subterminal line. Its head and thorax are covered in light brown scales.
