Cherry Dagger
Common NameCherry Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta hasta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, orchards, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantscherry, oak, maple, birch, willow, apple, elm
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, tufted caterpillars that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark, and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent black dagger-like markings on the forewings, especially the one extending from the basal dash and the one near the apex. The mottled grey-brown coloration provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a cryptic pattern of mottled grey, brown, and black on its forewings, featuring distinct black 'dagger' marks near the base and apex.
