Noctuidae : Acronictinae
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Photo © Ben Sale,  Braughing Friars, Hertfordshire (19/07/14)

Similar Herts & Middlesex Species
Grey Dagger
Acronicta psi
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Dark Dagger
Acronicta tridens

([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775) 2283 / 73.037

General comments:
Extremely local and declining resident.

Adult Dark and Grey Daggers are identical in appearance, though the larvae are quite dissimilar. In both Herts and Middlesex, records of either species have consistently not been accepted by the County Moth Recorder unless they arose from either larval rearing or adult genitalia dissection. This draconian approach has allowed the true distribution of each species to be revealed. All specimens caught near expanses of Blackthorn are particularly worth a closer look as these might stand a higher chance of being "Darks".

Determination by Genitalia Examination Required

Recorded in 27 (66%) of 41 10k Squares.
First Recorded in 1887.
Last Recorded in 2023.
Additional Stats

< Alder Moth | Grey Dagger >

List Species Records   [Show All Latest]
Latest 5 Records
Date#VC10k Area
23/07/2023120TL34 - Royston (S)
25/06/2023120TL31 - Hertford
22/06/2022120TL33 - Therfield / Barkway
18/07/2021120TL42 - Bishop's Stortford (N)
14/07/2021120TL23 - Letchworth / Baldock
Show Details | 1990 to 2023 | 2000 to 2023 | Graph Key
Express Record Dark Dagger
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VC20 VC21 VC21 VC20
Click Map for Details
Forewing: 17-20mm.
Flight: One generation May-July. (Sept-Oct)
Foodplant:   Broadleaved trees and shrubs
Red List: Least Concern (LC)
GB Status: Common
Verification Grade:  Adult: 4
 Immature Adult   [Show Flight Weeks]
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