Noctuidae

73.322 Archer's Dart Agrotis vestigialis (Hufnagel, 1766)

Local

Similar species: Wood's Dart Agrotis graslini is larger in size (15 to 20mm), has more pointed forewings, less bold markings and a longer length of feathering on the males antennae.

Forewing: 14 to 18mm

Habitats: Coastal sand-dunes and vegetated shingle. Inland on dry sandy heathland and a calcareous grassland site.

Habits: The moth visits Marram, ragwort and Heather and occasionally flies in the day. It is attracted to sugar and light.

Foodplant: The polyphagous larva feeds on Hedge Bedstraw, Lady's Bedstraw, Heath Bedstraw, stitchworts including Greater Stitchwort, Sea Sandwort and other herbaceous plants and grasses. It hides just under the surface of the sand during the day. In captivity it will accept Dandelion. It pupates under the sand.