River Birch Dagger
Common NameRiver Birch Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta betulae
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, grayish-cream
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsRiver Birch, other birches, alder, elm, maple
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, typically gray or brown with tufts of hair, feeding on the leaves of host trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark or wood fragments, and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include the pale, mottled forewings with a prominent wavy subterminal line. Its association with River Birch and other deciduous trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
A medium-sized moth with pale, mottled forewings ranging from light tan to grayish-cream, featuring a distinctive wavy subterminal line and faint dark speckling, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
