Yellow Dart
Common NameYellow Dart
Scientific NameGraphiphora augur
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, heathland, various open habitats
Geographic RangePalearctic realm (Europe, Asia) and parts of North America
Host PlantsVaccinium, Rubus, Betula, Salix, Urtica, Taraxacum, Plantago
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe Yellow Dart overwinters as a larva. Larvae feed on various herbaceous plants and shrubs in spring, then pupate in the soil. Adults emerge in the summer months.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale yellowish-brown forewings with distinct, dark-outlined reniform and orbicular stigmata, which can appear somewhat 'dart-like'. The overall coloration provides good camouflage against bark or soil.
Description
A medium-sized moth with sandy-brown to pale yellowish-brown forewings, featuring subtle, darker brown dart-like markings (stigmata) and a slightly darker, often broken, subterminal line. The head and thorax are also sandy-brown and quite hairy.
