Powdered Dagger
Common NamePowdered Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta hasta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantsbirch, oak, willow, poplar, alder, cherry, maple
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating host plant material.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled grey and white appearance, the robust body, and especially the distinctive black 'dagger' or 'Y'-shaped marks on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with forewings mottled in shades of grey, white, and black, featuring prominent black 'dagger' or 'Y'-shaped markings near the base and apex.
