Recessed Dart Moth
Common NameRecessed Dart Moth
Scientific NameEuxoa recussa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)36
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black, whitish
HabitatGrasslands, heathlands, open woodlands, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia (Palearctic)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, low-growing herbaceous plants, plantain, dock
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous cutworms, feeding at night on the roots and lower parts of various herbaceous plants and grasses. They typically overwinter as eggs or young larvae, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the specific arrangement and shape of the forewing markings, particularly the dark reniform and orbicular spots, against a cryptic ground coloration. Definitive identification within the Euxoa genus often requires examination of genitalia.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with forewings displaying a complex, mottled pattern of grays, browns, and black markings, including distinct reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are typically paler, often whitish-gray.
