American Dagger Moth

This unique caterpillar was brought into my office for identification. The American Dagger Moth is a striking caterpillar with its bright yellow to white fuzzy hair and five long black “seta” or hair-like structures. This moth gets its name because the markings on its forewings resemble daggers; you need to have a good imagination to see the “daggers”. The moth's wings are a light brown with faint black zig zags throughout the wings and a faint white band with black spots. This insect is native to the United States east of the Rocky Mountains and can be found in Kansas, although it is more common in the Southeast part of the United States. They are commonly found on elms, maples, ash, oaks, willows, and any hardwood tree. The American Dagger moth is not typically a pest we need to control in trees and shrubs, except on rare occasions. Like many insects, the hairs of this caterpillar can cause skin irritation, rashes, and occasionally an allergic reaction, so I would avoid picking the caterpillars up by hand and touching them.

 

Have questions? Contact our office where our Horticulture Extension Agent will assist you with questions.

Phone: (316) 321-9660

Email: callae@ksu.edu