Total Dagger Moth
Common NameTotal Dagger Moth
Scientific NameAcronicta tota
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are hairy caterpillars that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall mottled grey appearance, the specific arrangement of black lines (including a basal dash), and the prominent reniform and orbicular spots on the forewings, characteristic of many 'dagger' moths.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a mottled grey and white cryptic pattern on its forewings, featuring distinct black lines and circular/kidney-shaped spots. Its body is robust and hairy, matching the wing coloration.
