Gray Dagger
Common NameGray Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta psi
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, parks, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, temperate Asia
Host Plantsoak, willow, birch, elm, hawthorn, fruit trees
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive, hairy, with a black and yellow stripe, and a prominent hump on the back. They pupate in a cocoon on bark or in soil.
Identification TipsLook for the overall gray and black mottled pattern, the distinct reniform and orbicular spots, and especially the black 'dagger' mark extending from the basal streak towards the discal cell.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled gray and black forewings, featuring distinct reniform and orbicular spots, and a prominent black 'dagger' mark near the base.
