Pseudohermonassa bicarnea

Look for pinkish or rose-colored spots on the forewings, which are usually visible even in worn specimens. The combination of moderate size (wingspan 32–43 mm), dull brown ground color, and July–October flight period helps separate it from related dart moths. Genitalia examination may be required for definitive identification from similar Pseudohermonassa species.

Wingspan 32–43 mm. Forewings brownish with pinkish spots or streaks, giving rise to the common name. Hindwings pale, often whitish or light gray. Overall coloration variable but generally dull brown with subtle pinkish markings.

Associated with wetlands, marshes, and moist meadows where larval host plants (Glyceria spp.) occur. Also found in adjacent upland areas.

Eastern North America, from the Atlantic coast west to south-central Saskatchewan and central North Dakota. Southern limit in western North Carolina, with recent records from Tennessee.

Adults active July through October. Single generation per year (univoltine).

Larvae feed on Glyceria maxima and Glyceria canadensis (mannagrass species). Older literature records additional plants (Vaccinium, Betula populifolia, Taraxacum officinale, Acer, meadowsweet) but these may represent misidentifications or incidental feeding.

• Glyceria maxima - larval food plantprimary host
• Glyceria canadensis - larval food plantprimary host

Single annual generation. Adults emerge mid-summer and are active through autumn. Larval stage presumably occurs in spring and early summer, though specific timing is poorly documented. Overwintering stage unknown but likely as egg or larva.

Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Larvae are presumed to feed internally or in concealed positions on host grasses, though specific behavior is poorly documented.

Larval herbivore on wetland grasses; contributes to nutrient cycling in marsh ecosystems. Serves as prey for birds, bats, and other insectivores.

Occasionally encountered by moth enthusiasts at light traps. No economic significance. Indicator species for wetland habitat quality.

• Pseudohermonassa tenuiculaSimilar size and coloration, but lacks pink forewing spots and has different distribution and habitat preferences
• Other Noctua/Pseudohermonassa speciesMany brown noctuids with pale hindwings; pink spots and specific flight period help distinguish P. bicarnea

Older literature lists diverse food plants (including Vaccinium, Betula, Acer) that likely represent misidentifications of larvae or confusion with other species; modern sources restrict hosts to Glyceria grasses.

• moth
• Noctuidae
• North America
• wetland
• univoltine

• BugGuide
• Wikipedia
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• Catalogue of Life