Ipsilon Dart Moth
Common NameIpsilon Dart Moth
Scientific NameAgrotis ipsilon
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide, except Antarctica)
Host Plantscorn, cotton, tobacco, various vegetables, weeds
Flight PeriodMarch to November (in temperate regions, year-round in tropics)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae, known as black cutworms, feed at night, often cutting young plants at the soil line. Pupation occurs in the soil, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent black 'dagger' or 'ipsilon' mark on the forewing, along with the dark reniform and orbicular spots. The overall mottled brown/grey coloration and robust body are also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown and grey forewings featuring distinctive dark, dagger-like markings and paler hindwings.
