Hesitant Dagger
Common NameHesitant Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta hesperida
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy and feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating wood fragments, and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled gray forewings with distinct black 'dagger' shaped markings, especially a prominent one pointing towards the base from the reniform spot.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with cryptically patterned forewings in shades of gray, black, and white, featuring characteristic black 'dagger' marks near the base and reniform spot.
