Subgothic Dart
Common NameSubgothic Dart
Scientific NameXestia c-nigrum
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, grey
HabitatGardens, woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas, disturbed ground
Geographic RangeHolarctic (widespread across Europe, Asia, and North America)
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, dock, clover, willow, birch, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to October (often bivoltine or trivoltine)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous cutworms, feeding on a wide range of plants. The species typically overwinters as a larva or pupa, with multiple generations per year in warmer climates.
Identification TipsThe most distinguishing feature is the prominent black, C-shaped or Hebrew character-like mark on the costa (leading edge) of the forewing, contrasting with the lighter brown base color.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and dark brown forewings, featuring a distinctive black C-shaped mark (or Hebrew character) on the leading edge near the thorax.
