Description

Wingspan 40 to 44mm. This moth has grey wings with some paler and black wavy lines across them and scattering of dagger-shapes. Best told from almost identical Dark Dagger, Acronicta tridens, by its genitalia or caterpillar.

Habitat

Woodland edge, hedgerows and parks. A wide variety of woody plants are food plants for the caterpillar, including hawthorn, blackthorn and birch.

Status and distribution

Common and widespread in England, Wales and lowland Scotland. Common in Nottinghamshire and at Netherfield Lagoons.

Best time to see

May to July.