Charred Dagger
Common NameCharred Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta brumosa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts, that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark or wood fragments.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled gray and white pattern, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark. While 'dagger' markings are characteristic of the genus, they can be obscure in this species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic, mottled forewings in shades of light gray, dark gray, and black, resembling lichen or tree bark.
