Splendid Dagger
Common NameSplendid Dagger
Scientific NameAcronicta superans
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsbirch, maple, oak, willow, cherry, apple, elm
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often with tufts, and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark fragments, in leaf litter or under bark.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey and white forewings with black dashes, particularly the 'dagger' mark near the tornus and a less distinct one near the base. The overall cryptic pattern is characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey, white, black, and yellowish-brown forewings, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. It features subtle dark 'dagger' markings near the base and apex of the forewings.
