Large Gray Dagger
Common NameLarge Gray Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta leporina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, white, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed woodlands, forests, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeHolarctic (North America, Europe, Asia)
Host Plantsbirch, alder, willow, poplar
Flight PeriodMay to September (two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive, covered in long, shaggy white or yellowish hairs, often with black tufts. They pupate in a cocoon incorporating wood fragments or bark.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall pale, almost whitish-gray ground color and mottled pattern, often lacking the prominent 'dagger' markings seen in other *Acronicta* species. The shaggy, white-haired caterpillar is also a key identifier.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a pale gray to whitish-gray, mottled appearance on its forewings, featuring faint wavy lines and a series of dark terminal spots. Its robust body is covered in matching gray hairs.
