Pale-winged Dart
Common NamePale-winged Dart
Scientific NameLacinipolia patalis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, clover, various grasses
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are polyphagous feeders on herbaceous plants and grasses, pupating in the soil before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown forewings with distinct black-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and the overall cryptic pattern. The pale hindwings are usually hidden at rest.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings featuring prominent black-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and a wavy subterminal line, providing excellent camouflage.
