Fragile Dagger
Common NameFragile Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta fragilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America
Host Plantsbirch, maple, willow, elm, oak, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September (two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its intricate black and white forewing pattern, including a prominent black dagger-like mark near the base and distinct orbicular and reniform spots, often with a relatively clean white ground color.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a mottled black, white, and grey pattern, featuring prominent reniform and orbicular spots on the forewings, giving it a cryptic appearance.
