Pacific Dagger
Common NamePacific Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta pacifica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatForests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia to California, east to Idaho and Montana)
Host Plantsalder, willow, poplar, birch, oak
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating host plant material, and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the overall grey and black mottled appearance, characteristic dagger-like markings on the forewings (though sometimes subtle), and the thoracic tufts. Distinguishing from similar *Acronicta* species may require close examination.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its mottled grey and black cryptic pattern on the forewings, often with dark streaks and indistinct spots, and prominent tufts of scales on its thorax.
