Square-Spot Dart
Common NameSquare-Spot Dart
Scientific NameEuxoa obeliscata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, ochre
HabitatHeathland, sandy areas, coastal dunes, open woodlands
Geographic RangeWestern Europe, North Africa
Host Plantsheather, bell heather, various grasses, low-growing herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on roots and lower stems of various plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewings with distinct, pale-edged orbicular and reniform stigmata, the latter often squarish. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend with its environment.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring prominent, pale-ringed orbicular and reniform stigmata, the latter often appearing somewhat square.
