Sad Dagger
Common NameSad Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta morula
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantselm, maple, oak, willow, birch
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts of hair, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating host plant material.
Identification TipsLook for the overall mottled grey and black coloration and the characteristic 'dagger' shaped markings on the forewings, which are typical for the *Acronicta* genus.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and black forewings, featuring a cryptic pattern that helps it blend with tree bark. The hindwings are typically paler.
