Noctuidae

73.311 Coast Dart Euxoa cursoria (Hufnagel, 1766)

Notable B

Similar species: There are a wide range of colour forms as in White-line Dart Euxoa tritici which is on average smaller (13 to 17mm) and has darts between the veins inside the outer cross-line. If unsure check the genitalia. Some forms of Sand Dart Agrotis ripae are similar, but these have a smaller kidney mark and oval and usually weaker cross-lines.

Forewing: 14 to 18mm

Habitats: The vegetated parts of coastal sand-dunes.

Habits: The moth visits the flowers of marram, other grasses, ragworts and Heather from dusk. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The nocturnal larva feeds on Sea Couch, Sand Couch, Early Hair-grass, Hound's-tongue, violets, Sea Sandwort, Sticky Mouse-ear, Sea Spurge and other herbaceous plants. It hides in the sand during the day. In captivity it accepts Dandelion and plantains. It pupates in an egg-shaped cocoon deep in the sand.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Wild Asparagus, Grass-leaved Orache, other oraches, Sorrel, Sea Pea and Lyme-grass.