Stout Dart
Common NameStout Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis crassa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatGrasslands, heathlands, gardens, open woodlands, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia
Host PlantsPlantago, Rumex, Taraxacum, various grasses
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous cutworms, feeding at night on roots and lower parts of herbaceous plants. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown/grey forewings with prominent dark 'dart' markings (claviform and orbicular stigmata) and a distinct reniform spot, often with a pale outline. Hindwings are typically paler, greyish-white.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, typically mottled shades of brown and grey, featuring distinct dark dart-shaped markings and a kidney-shaped reniform spot.
