Hackberry Dagger
Common NameHackberry Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta rubricoma
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, riparian areas, urban environments with hackberry trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsCeltis occidentalis, Celtis laevigata
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on hackberry leaves. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating silk and larval hairs, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey and white forewings with distinct black 'dagger' marks near the base and prominent, often dark-ringed, reniform and orbicular spots. The overall cryptic pattern helps it blend with tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring intricate dark markings including prominent reniform and orbicular spots, and characteristic black 'dagger' streaks near the base.
