Night-wandering Dagger
Common NameNight-wandering Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta noctivaga
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, birch, elm
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants. The hairy larvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled black and white forewings and the characteristic 'dagger' mark (a black streak) near the basal area, though it can be subtle.
Description
This moth features a robust, hairy body and forewings with a complex, mottled pattern of black, white, and grey, providing excellent camouflage. The hindwings are typically paler.
