Learn what an American dagger moth and caterpillar looks like. Also find out which host plants these moths need.
How to Identify an American Dagger Moth
Published on Apr. 23, 2025
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American Dagger Moth Caterpillar
“What’s this caterpillar I found on my birdbath?” asks Birds & Blooms reader Linda Maria DiSalvia of Abescon, New Jersey.
Experts Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman say, “This fuzzy yellow creature is the larva of the American dagger moth (Acronicta americana), recognized by the two prominent pairs of long black tufts. Their long hairs can cause skin irritation for some people, and other kinds of hairy caterpillars can cause a painful stinging sensation, so it’s best to avoid handling larvae that look like this.”
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Host Plants
These larvae feed on the leaves of a variety of trees, including oak, maple and willow.
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Adult Moth
Kenn and Kimberly say, “The adult American dagger is a relatively plain brown-gray moth with an inconspicuous dark “dagger” mark on each forewing.”
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Range and Habitat
Look for these moths in wooded areas, east of the Rocky Mountains, in the United States and Canada. They are less commonly spotted in the western states.
About the Experts
Kenn and Kimberly Kaufman are the official bird experts for Birds & Blooms. They are the creators of the Kaufman Field Guide series and they lead birding trips all over the world.
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