Praevia Dart
Common NamePraevia Dart
Scientific NameEuxoa praevia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatOpen areas, fields, prairies, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia to California, east to Montana and Colorado)
Host Plantsgrasses, various herbaceous plants, garden vegetables
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are cutworms, typically feeding nocturnally on the roots and stems of various plants, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the specific pattern of the forewings, particularly the shape and contrast of the reniform and orbicular spots, and the wavy subterminal line. The overall cryptic brown coloration is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and tan forewings, featuring distinct reniform and orbicular spots, and a wavy subterminal line. Its coloration provides excellent camouflage against bark or soil.
