Streaked Dagger Moth
Common NameStreaked Dagger Moth
Scientific NameAcronicta psorallina
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)34
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, grey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southeastern Canada and eastern United States)
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are hairy caterpillars that feed on oak leaves, then pupate in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or under bark.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique streaked and mottled olive-green and grey forewing pattern, which provides excellent camouflage against tree bark or lichen. The characteristic 'dagger' mark of the genus is present but often obscured by the overall cryptic coloration.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings mottled in shades of olive-green, grey, and black, creating a cryptic, lichen-like pattern. The hindwings are typically paler grey.
