Photo © David G Green
Dark Dagger
Acronicta tridens
Checklist Number73.037 [B&F: 2283]
Verification
Record requires retention of specimen until confirmed, and may require dissection. Consult with CMR if unsure
Classification
| Family: | Noctuidae |
| Subfamily: | Acronictinae |
| Genus: | Acronicta |
| Species: | tridens |
| Authority: | ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) |
Common in woodland, fens, gardens and a wide range of other habitats throughout much of England and Wales. In Hampshire and on the Isle of Wight very much less common than Grey Dagger, although undoubtedly under-recorded owing to similarity to that species. Wingspan 33-44 mm. Very similar to Grey Dagger A. psi, from which separated only by dissection of the genitalia. The larvae of the two species are readily identifiable. Larva feeds on various broad-leaved trees and shrubs, including Wild Rose, Cultivated Rose, Hawthorn, Blackthorn and Goat Willow, over-wintering as a pupa.
The abundance in each month is indicated as follows:
No records
Very occasional
Irregular
Uncommon
Off-peak, but not unusual
Off-peak, but not unusual
Main flight time| J | F | M | A | M | J | J | A | S | O | N | D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | | | | | | | | | | | | |
| Larval | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Records by week (adult)
Records by week (larval)
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