Tricose Dart
Common NameTricose Dart
Scientific NameEuxoa tricose
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, tan
HabitatGrasslands, prairies, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (primarily western and central)
Host Plantsvarious grasses, low-growing herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms, feeding at night on the base of various herbaceous plants and grasses, and hiding in the soil during the day. Pupation occurs underground.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewing pattern with distinct, though often subtle, dark reniform and orbicular spots. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend with bark or soil.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic forewings mottled in shades of brown, grey, and black, featuring complex patterns including dark reniform and orbicular spots and lighter streaks. The thorax is hairy and similarly colored.
