Sand Dart
Common NameSand Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis ripae
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)37
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorssandy brown, grey, black
HabitatCoastal sand dunes, sandy beaches, maritime environments
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, North Africa
Host Plantssea sandwort, sea couch, saltwort, orache
Flight PeriodLate May to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are subterranean, feeding on the roots and lower stems of coastal plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the sand, emerging as adults in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive sandy-grey, mottled forewings with dark stigmata, and its preference for coastal sand dune habitats. Its cryptic coloration makes it blend seamlessly with its environment.
Description
This moth has a highly cryptic appearance, with forewings typically sandy-grey or pale brown, mottled with darker grey and black markings, including prominent reniform and orbicular stigmata.
