Lupine Dagger
Common NameLupine Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta lupini
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, black, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, chaparral, gardens, areas with lupine
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia south to California, east to Montana and Colorado)
Host PlantsLupinus, Ceanothus, Salix, Alnus, Prunus
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically hairy, often with tufts, and feed on lupines and other woody plants before pupating in a cocoon, often incorporating plant material.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled gray and black forewings that resemble lichen or bark. While named for a 'dagger' mark, this can be subtle; the overall cryptic pattern is a key feature.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a robust, hairy body and forewings mottled in shades of gray, black, and white, providing excellent camouflage against bark.
