Maple Dagger
Common NameMaple Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta americana
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, parks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmaple, oak, birch, elm, willow, ash
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are distinctive, brightly colored hairy caterpillars, often yellow or orange with black tufts and prominent black 'pencil' tufts. They pupate in a cocoon mixed with hairs, often in leaf litter or bark crevices.
Identification TipsIdentified by its mottled grey and white forewing pattern, often with a subtle 'dagger' mark near the base, and its characteristic hairy larva. The hindwings are usually plain pale grey.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring indistinct dark markings that provide excellent camouflage against bark. The hindwings are typically paler.
