DAGGER moths
Interrupted Dagger. I have found several individuals at my UV lights from April through August.
Ochre Dagger. This moth has a telltale golden streak on its head. I have found two Ochre Daggers at my lights, one on June 18, 2016, and this individual on May 22, 2023.
This is an American Dagger. This species is noteworthy among dagger moths for its large size.
I have found several American Dagger moths at my lights from June through August.
Ruddy Dagger, also known as the Hackberry Dagger moth. I have found several of these moths at my lights from April through July.
Radcliffe's Dagger, photographed August 13, 2023 at my moth lights. This is my only sighting of the species.
Greater Oak Dagger. I have found a couple of these moths both at my home lights and at Hocking Hills, in late April and early May. This one was photographed at my home moth lights.
Many species of dagger moths are difficult to identify, but this Funerary Dagger is unique for the striking black mask-like shape on its wings. Their larvae, known as "paddle caterpillars," are equally distinctive. Funerary Dagger moths are not very common. This is the only one I have found at my lights (June 14, 2024).
Greater Oak Dagger, photographed in the Hocking Hills area.
Another Interrupted Dagger at my UV lights.
Cottonwood Dagger moth. This is not a very common species. I have only found two individuals at my lights, both in May 2024.