Interrupted Dagger
Common NameInterrupted Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta interrupta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas)
Host Plantsoak, elm, maple, birch, willow, hackberry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating host plant material, in leaf litter or under bark.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive black 'dagger' marks on the forewings, particularly the interrupted basal dash and the reniform spot. The overall mottled grey coloration is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring prominent black 'dagger' marks and wavy lines, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
