Winter Dart
Common NameWinter Dart
Scientific NameEgira hiemalis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs, then pupate in the soil. The species overwinters as a pupa, with adults emerging in late winter to early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include the cryptic grey-brown forewing pattern with prominent reniform and orbicular spots, often with a reddish-brown tint, and its characteristic flight period during the late winter and early spring months.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring intricate patterns of wavy lines and distinct kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots, often with reddish-brown accents.
