Greater Red Dart

abagrotis alternata

The Greater Red Dart (Abagrotis alternata) is a fascinating nocturnal moth belonging to the Noctuidae family, commonly known as "owlet moths." This species is primarily recognized by its distinctive forewing patterns, which include reddish-brown hues and prominent dark markings. It plays a crucial role in its ecosystem as both a pollinator in its adult stage, feeding on nectar, and as a primary consumer in its larval stage, where caterpillars feed on the foliage of various plants. Its life cycle, from egg to larva to pupa and finally to a winged adult, showcases a remarkable transformation. Despite its relatively small size, the Greater Red Dart contributes significantly to the biodiversity of the habitats it occupies, often serving as a food source for various insectivores.

Habitat: Found in a variety of habitats including deciduous and mixed forests, open woodlands, fields, and suburban gardens where host plants and nectar sources are abundant.

Appearance

The Greater Red Dart is a medium-sized moth, typically exhibiting forewings with a base color ranging from pale yellowish-brown to a richer reddish-brown. A key identifying feature is the prominent, dark, dart-like marking that extends from the base of the forewing towards the middle, often outlined in a lighter shade. The hindwings are usually a plainer, duller gray or brown, lacking significant markings. Its body is stout and covered in fine hairs, matching the wing coloration.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyNoctuidaeGenusAbagrotis

Greater Red Dart

Interesting facts

Adult Greater Red Darts are attracted to sap flows on trees, as well as overripe fruit, in addition to flower nectar.

Like many moths in the Noctuidae family, the Greater Red Dart's caterpillars are sometimes referred to as 'cutworms' due to their habit of cutting down young plants at the soil line, though this species is generally not considered a major agricultural pest.

The common name 'Dart' refers to the moth's often rapid and direct flight pattern, especially when disturbed.

The species typically overwinters as a pupa in the soil or leaf litter, emerging as an adult moth in late summer.

Special abilities

The mottled brown and reddish patterns on its forewings allow it to blend seamlessly with tree bark, leaf litter, or dried vegetation during its resting hours, effectively evading visual predators like birds.

When disturbed, the Greater Red Dart can execute rapid, erratic flight patterns, making it difficult for predators such as bats or nocturnal birds to track and capture it.

Adults possess a long, coiled proboscis, a tube-like mouthpart, which allows them to efficiently extract nectar from deep within various flowers, contributing to pollination.

Measurements & details

Length: 1-2 cm
Wingspan: 3-4 cm
Weight: 0.0005-0.0015 kg
Lifespan: 0-1 years
Top Speed: 15 km/h
Clutch Size: 100-300
Incubation: 5-10 days

Diet & Feeding

Adult Greater Red Darts are nectarivorous, feeding on the sweet liquids produced by flowering plants. Their caterpillars, however, are herbivorous, consuming the leaves of a variety of woody plants and shrubs.

Age differences: Larvae (caterpillars) feed exclusively on plant foliage, while the adult moths feed solely on nectar.

Primary Foods

Maple nectar
Oak leaves
Aster nectar
Willow leaves
Goldenrod nectar
Poplar leaves

Foraging Method

Foraging (adults), Grazing (larvae)

Ecological connections

eaten by

American Robin

Turdus migratorius

Larvae consumed by insectivorous birds.

eaten by

Big Brown Bat

Eptesicus fuscus

Adults are preyed upon by nocturnal flying mammals.

host plant

Red Oak

Quercus rubra

Larvae feed on the leaves of this tree.

mutualism

Canada Goldenrod

Solidago canadensis

Adults feed on nectar from these flowers.

Traits

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Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

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Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

No special safety notes yet.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to identify Greater Red Dart?

The easiest way to identify Greater Red Dart is to use the Snappit nature identifier app.

How long is Greater Red Dart?

1-2 cm

What is Greater Red Dart's wingspan?

3-4 cm

How much does Greater Red Dart weigh?

0.0005-0.0015 kg

How long does Greater Red Dart live?

0-1 years

How fast can Greater Red Dart move?

15 km/h

What does Greater Red Dart eat?

Where is Greater Red Dart usually found?

Found in a variety of habitats including deciduous and mixed forests, open woodlands, fields, and suburban gardens where host plants and nectar sources are abundant.