Medium Oak Dagger
Common NameMedium Oak Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta intermedia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern United States and Canada)
Host Plantsoak, birch, maple, elm, willow, poplar
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, typically feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating silk and larval hairs.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled grey and brown coloration with black streaks and a characteristic 'dagger' mark on the forewings. Can be distinguished from similar *Acronicta* species by specific pattern details.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring intricate patterns and often a distinct black 'dagger' mark near the anal angle.
