Smeared Dagger Moth
Acronicta oblinita fam. Noctuidae (Hodges#9272)
Host plant(s): Found on willow (Salix sp.)
Date(s) and location(s): 15 September, 2025 – Little Creve Coeur Ecological Area
Notes: I found six of these caterpillars, all about the same size, color, and pattern, at this date and location within a few minutes of searching through willows. Due to the summer drought, willows in this areas were easily accessible at this location without the need of boots! Another common name for this species is the smartweed caterpillar. They do feed on smartweed but are highly polyphagous and feed on numerous forbs and woody plants.
Beware the urticating hairs of this species. This has been the most irritating caterpillar “sting” I have yet experienced. A bit more fiery than others and it came with a lingering rash with small blisters.
A Thousand Acres of Silphiums 