Subterranean Dart
Common NameSubterranean Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis subterranea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, tan
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central US, parts of Canada), Central America, Caribbean, parts of South America
Host Plantscorn, tobacco, cotton, peanuts, beans, tomatoes, cabbage, various grasses and weeds
Flight PeriodApril to November (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. Larvae, known as cutworms, are nocturnal and feed at the base of plants or just below the soil surface, pupating in the soil. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsLook for the specific pattern of the forewing spots and the dark dash extending from the reniform spot. The pale hindwings are also a key feature, though it can be confused with other *Agrotis* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled dark brown and grey forewings featuring distinct reniform and orbicular spots, often connected by a dark dash. The hindwings are typically pale whitish to light tan.
