Greater Dagger Moth
Common NameGreater Dagger Moth
Scientific NameAcronicta major
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsoak, birch, willow, elm, poplar, lime
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts of hair, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark or wood fragments, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the overall grey and brown cryptic pattern on the forewings, with distinct black 'dagger' or 'wedge' markings, especially a prominent one near the tornus. The antennae are simple and thread-like.
Description
This moth has mottled greyish-brown forewings with intricate dark markings, including characteristic 'dagger' shapes near the base and termen. The hindwings are typically paler grey.
