Hybris Dagger Moth
Common NameHybris Dagger Moth
Scientific NameRaphia hybris
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, cream
HabitatWoodlands, forests, and areas with host trees like poplar, willow, and birch.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, and west to Texas and Manitoba.
Host PlantsPopulus spp. (poplar), Salix spp. (willow), Betula spp. (birch)
Flight PeriodMay to August, sometimes into September, with one or two broods.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, and pupation typically occurs in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled grey and brown cryptic pattern, the shaggy thorax, and the specific arrangement of dark markings on the forewings, especially the distinct reniform and orbicular spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey, brown, and black forewings, giving it a cryptic, bark-like appearance. The thorax is notably shaggy, and the forewings feature distinct dark markings, including a prominent reniform spot.
