Noctuidae

73.312 Square-spot Dart Euxoa obelisca grisea (Tutt, 1902)

Notable B

Similar species: White-line Dart Euxoa tritici has darts between the veins inside the outer cross-line (although the veins may themselves be black in Square-spot Dart). The outer central cross-line loops around the kidney mark well clear of it rather than along its edge. If unsure check the genitalia.

Forewing: 14 to 18mm

Habitats: Rocky coasts and sea-cliffs. Occasionally rocky hillsides inland.

Habits: The moth visits the flowers of ragworts and Heather. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The larva feeds on Common Rock-rose, Lady's Bedstraw and probably many other herbaceous plants. In captivity it accepts Dandelion, plantains and bedstraws. It pupates in an earthen cocoon under the soil.

On the European mainland it has also been recorded feeding on Bird's-foot Trefoil, Horse-shoe Vetch and Orpine.