73.038 BF2284 – Grey Dagger – Noctuidae – Acronicta psi
Grey Dagger – Noctuidae – Acronictinae – Acronicta psi
STATUS – A resident species that is widely distributed and generally fairly common. Accurate status is difficult due to close resemblances to Dark Dagger – Acronicta tridens. More commonly found in the lowland areas of the Trent valley. The only sure way of identification is by the differences in caterpillars. If a Gen.Det is not possible, then best record as Dark/Grey Dagger agg. However, of the two species, Grey Dagger is the most likely to be encountered in the county.
ID POINTERS – Dark Dagger tends to have more shinier forewing, which in the male is often narrower, with a white hind-wing without dark veins or dusting. Male Dark Dagger tends to have a narrower thorax than Grey Dagger. Both the lightest and darkest individuals tend to be Grey Dagger. The black dagger like markings are said to resemble the Greek letter psi, this is how it got its scientific name. The hind wings are a dirty grey and generally not as white as Dark Dagger.
FLIGHT PERIOD – Mid April – July
IMAGES – Melbourne – Tony Davison© – Possibly Grey Dagger – recorded as Grey/Dark Dagger agg.
