Hitched Arches
Common NameHitched Arches
Scientific NameApamea exulis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsdark grey, brown, black, white
HabitatMoorland, heathland, mountainous regions, tundra, coastal areas
Geographic RangeHolarctic (Northern Europe, Russia, North America including Canada, Alaska, and northern US states)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, sedges, rushes
Flight PeriodJune to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots and lower stems of grasses and sedges. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil in spring, with adults emerging in summer.
Identification TipsLook for the overall dark, mottled appearance with prominent, often pale-edged reniform and orbicular stigmata, and a wavy pale subterminal line. The specific shape of the reniform stigma can be a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with cryptically patterned forewings, typically dark grey-brown mottled with black and white markings, providing excellent camouflage against bark or rocks.
