Miller Dagger
Common NameMiller Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta dactylina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsbirch, willow, alder, poplar
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale ground color of the forewings and the distinctive black dagger-shaped markings, particularly the reniform and orbicular spots.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pale white to light grey forewings distinctly marked with prominent black dagger-like shapes and scattered black spots.
