Heart and Dart (Agrotis exclamationis, (Linnaeus, 1758))

General Information
During the peak of its season, this is one of the most common species found in light traps.

Overwinters underground as a larva and pupates in the spring.
Overwinters as Overwinters as a larva.
Both sexes readily come to light, sometimes in numbers.

Forewing length: 15-19mm.
Foodplant(s): Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata), Fat-hen (Chenopodium album), herbaceous plants
Flying: Two generations, mid May-late August and September
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Arable farmland, pasture and gardens.

Regional Information

Recorded in 155 (57.4%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in October 2023

Recorded date range (Adult): 13 April to 28 October

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 31 May to 07 October

Similar Species

Earith

Photo © David Griffiths

Turnip Moth Agrotis segetum

Great Staughton

Heart and Club Agrotis clavis

Black Collar Dichagyris flammatra (=Ochropleura) (=Basistriga)

2089 (ABH73.317) Heart and Dart Agrotis exclamationis, (Linnaeus, 1758)

KR10348