Venerable Dart
Common NameVenerable Dart
Scientific NameAgrotis venerabilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, white, tan
HabitatOpen fields, grasslands, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread from southern Canada to southern US)
Host Plantsgrasses, clover, alfalfa, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as cutworms, feeding on the roots and stems of various herbaceous plants, often at night. They pupate underground, and adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the large, triangular white patch (reniform spot) on the dark forewing, which stands out against the otherwise mottled dark brown and black coloration.
Description
A medium-sized moth with dark brown to black forewings featuring a prominent, contrasting white patch near the thorax and lighter brown/tan streaking. The hindwings are typically paler.
