Caterpillars amount in many shapes , sizes , colours , and types . Some type of caterpillars have lenient smooth colourful trunk that can be gullible , black , orange , or white . Some of these caterpillars may have stripped bodies or have interesting disguise markings . Other kinds of Caterpillar have furry body , spiky bodies , or horns on their bodies or heads . A caterpillar identification chart can aid you distinguish the dissimilar types of caterpillar .
A cat is the larval stage of a moth or butterfly . It ’s part of their four - stage life rhythm : egg , larva , pupa , and adult . The caterpillar is the crucial 2d stage in this transformation process .
Understanding how to identify various type of caterpillars allows us to foresee their transformations . For model , the classifiable black , yellow , and white - striped cat transforms into the far-famed monarch butterfly .
Another ground to be able to identify sure types of caterpillars is to recognize which ones are hazardous or venomous . For instance , the furred outside of certain caterpillars can cause skin irritation upon contact .
stick caterpillarshave hollow bristles containing toxic inwardness . physical contact with these risky caterpillars can result in the expiration of venom , causing various reaction ranging from mild sting and rub to intense pain . Certain spiky caterpillars , such as the giant silkworm moth caterpillar , are even known to be potentially deadly .
So you need to be deliberate when touching any fuzzed caterpillars even if they look harmless .
Caterpillar Identification
To identify Caterpillar , it is important to take note of their size of it , coloration , type of hairy covering , and specific markings such as stripes , smirch or ‘ horns ’ . Most stinging caterpillars are identified by spine or fine hairs shroud their body . Sometypes of furry caterpillarsalso look deceiving . For example , some woolly caterpillars take care like soft fluffy worm . However , their bristles are a defense mechanics and it can be spiky and painful .
In this article , you will learn about many types of caterpillars and how to key out them properly . You will encounter out motion-picture show of caterpillars and con about their singular characteristics .
Types of Caterpillars (with Pictures and Names): An Identification Guide
Even though many type of caterpillars look dissimilar and have various characteristics , they all have one thing in common – they love to deplete . For example , some types of caterpillars can increase their weight thousands of times in a few weeks .
Let ’s front in more detail at these fascinating and interesting - looking worms .
Hickory Horned Devil (Regal Moth) Caterpillar(Citheronia regalis)
The Hickory horn Devil is a type of enceinte horn caterpillar that turns to a big moth
The hickory horn devil caterpillar ( Citheronia regalis ) has to top the leaning for the scariest - looking caterpillar . Thisgreen caterpillarhas black - tipped orange prickly spike at its caput that look dangerous . However , despite its fierce horn appearance , this type of cat is totally harmless .
aside from being a shuddery caterpillar , the hickory tusk devil is also one of the largest caterpillars in the world . Fully grown , this scarlet and black horned caterpillar can grow up to 6 ” ( 15 cm ) . Its pale green plump segmented torso has little disastrous spines bond out of it and black marking at its head section . This tremendous caterpillar is also identified by a carmine patch at the end of its dead body .
As their name suggests , this big green fat caterpillar feeds on hickory leaves as well as cotton plant , hazel farewell , and ash Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree leaves .
The hickory tusk devil transforms into one of the biggest moths you may discover .
Monarch Caterpillar(Danaus plexippus)
The crowned head caterpillar has black-market , white , and yellow stripes on its body
The monarch butterfly caterpillar ( Danaus plexippus ) is quite well-to-do to identify with its black , livid , and yellow stripes . Monarch caterpillars gorge on Sonchus oleraceus which micturate them poisonous to other birds and insects .
Stripy monarch caterpillar grow to between 1 ” and 1.7 ” ( 2.5 – 4.5 centimetre ) long . From its first point , until is become a cocoon , this absorbing cat will increase its weight by 2,000 times .
Apart from its easy strip body , the Danaus plexippus cat has 2 pairs of tentacles . The monarch caterpillar turn into the noted sovereign butterfly .
Black Swallowtail Caterpillar(Papilio polyxenes)
The shameful swallowtail cat has unripened consistency with black stripes and yellowish pane
identify the black swallowtail caterpillar ( Papilio polyxenes ) is not hard due to the black stripes and scandalmongering dots on its embonpoint lime - light-green body . Another characteristic of this green caterpillar is its forked tongue behind its question that sticks out when threaten .
Although thisstriped caterpillarlooks standardized to the monarch caterpillar , it does n’t have tentacles at the head of its consistency . However , just like the Danaus plexippus , the black swallowtail caterpillar also munch on milkweed which offers it protection from predators .
This is a case of cat unremarkably found in North America . Other names for it include the ‘ American Swallowtail ’ and the ‘ Parsnip Swallowtail . ’ In its larvae stage , the bleak swallow-tailed coat also feeds on Petroselinum crispum , which is why it is also called the ‘ parsley caterpillar . ’
The smooth fleeceable body of this caterpillar from thePapiliogenus does n’t have any hair or venomous spike . So , you may safely handle this caterpillar if you desire to keep it in captivity .
Cecropia Caterpillar
The Cecropia moth caterpillar is a character of great light-green caterpillar with yellow and blue nodule
Another case of very large caterpillar is the Cecropia moth caterpillar with its fatty green body and shuddery appearance .
you’re able to describe the Cecropia caterpillar by its farsighted length and orangish , yellow , and grim nodules ( tubercles ) . Although not as large as the horned devil , this giant cat can grow up to between 4 ” and 4.5 ” ( 10 – 11 atomic number 96 ) . Its dreaded look is due to the differently - colour tubercles . Each of these protrusions has petite smuggled spikes .
Despite their freakish visual aspect , these enormous caterpillars are harmless . They do n’t bite or sting and wo n’t get any problems handle them . They get to their huge size by feeding on Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree and shrub leave-taking .
As you would expect from such a large cat , the Cecropia caterpillar transfiguration into a large moth . In fact , the Cecropia moth is the expectant moth native to North America .
Elephant Hawk Moth(Deilephila elpenor)
The Elephant Hawk Moth caterpillar has white-haired - brown body and black spots
Another strange - see cat is the elephant hawk moth caterpillar ( Deilephila elpenor ) . The name for thisbrown - colorize caterpillarcomes from its resemblance to an elephant ’s body .
The moth larvae are identified by their grey-headed - brown coloring and smutty spots along the side of its consistence . The brown caterpillar has an oval head with eye - spot on it . This gives the caterpillar a frightening flavour to predators who will tend to leave them alone . Another key lineament of the elephant mortarboard caterpillar is the trump at the end of the physical structure .
When fully grow , these cat can measure up to 3 ” ( 7.5 curium ) .
Spicebush Swallowtail Caterpillar(Papilio Troilus)
The Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillar has markings that look like simulated eye on its head
The spicebush swallowtail caterpillar ( Papilio Troilus ) is a type of caterpillar that looks like a flyspeck ophidian . It has a bright green trunk with small bluish rings around its segments , yellow vividness around its midsection and a thin line of reasoning along the sides . One of the more unusual features of this cat is its fake oculus on its headway .
Some types of this caterpillar have a yellow - green color rather than pale green . However , the distinctive marker that proffer protection from piranha are a vernacular identifying feature of this caterpillar . If the caterpillar find imperil , it will rear up and emit a foul - smelling odor to guard off birds and other insects .
It may be hard to spy this caterpillar as it is normally feeds at night and hides during the day .
When the larvae emerge from their pupae , they are a sensational example of bleak - bleached butterflies .
Zebra Longwing Butterfly Caterpillar(Heliconius charithonia)
The Zebra Longwing caterpillar is a type of spiky cat
The zebra longwing caterpillar ( Heliconius charithonia ) is place by its long black capitulum jut from its grayish - green or off-white - hoar body . As well as these long spike , disgraceful dots along its body adds to its scary look .
This spiky caterpillar gorge on varieties of passionflower vine . Compounds in the passionflower plant turn into toxic compound in the zebra longwing caterpillars . This makes them foul - smack to any potential predators .
The name for these caterpillars comes from thebeautiful butterfliesthat emerge from the pupa . The long notched - sounding Caterpillar transform into butterflies with dark and ashen striped wings .
Tobacco Hornworm Caterpillar(Manduca sexta)
The Tobacco Hornworm caterpillar is a eccentric of enceinte green caterpillar
The orotund green tobacco plant hornworm caterpillar ( Manduca sexta ) is harmless to mankind but can eat their way through your tomato plants . Compared to some other types of caterpillars , this common caterpillar species can be a serious pest in your garden .
Although not as immense as the hickory horned devil cat , the tobacco hornworm is identified among the large type of caterpillars . amply grown , the caterpillar can strain up to 4 ” ( 10 atomic number 96 ) in duration . Its caustic lime - green body has 7 faint-hearted white sloped stripes on each side of its physical structure .
This caterpillar specimen looks quite harmless apart from its orangish or reddish - pinkish hook at its derriere end . However , even this tusk final stage wo n’t do any harm if you contact it .
The tobacco hornworm caterpillar transmute into a ginormous moth phone the ‘ Tobacco Hawk moth . ’
Funerary Dagger Moth Caterpillar(Acronicta funeralis)
The Funerary Dagger cat is also called the boat paddle cat due to its boat paddle - like hairs
The funerary dagger caterpillar ( Acronicta funeralis ) is a striking instance of a rareblack - gray caterpillarspecies . Vivid yellow and white markings develop on the back of this diffused cat as it matures and make it easy to be name .
One of the strange features of this cower larva bug is the strange paddle - like tomentum that protrude from the sides of the caterpillar , giving it also the rough-cut name the ‘ paddle cat ’ .
Funerary dagger moth feed on , among others , the leaves of birch , white basswood , apple , oak tree , and hickory trees .
White Admiral Caterpillar(Limenitis arthemis)
The White Admiral caterpillar is a horned cat that looks like birds drip
One way to identify the white admiral caterpillar ( Limenitis arthemis ) is by its two black horn bulge out from its head . This is a type of caterpillar that camouflages itself by resembling birds ’ dung .
The jaggy - looking caterpillar has an olive - green and brown eubstance with discolored white splotch . The brown look of these cower larvae also acts as good disguise on Mrs. Henry Wood and tree .
you could unremarkably discover livid admiral Caterpillar on aspen , birch , willow , and cherry tree trees .
butterfly that emerge from theLimenitis arthemisspecies can be calamitous and clean , sinister red , purple , or shades of blue . This eccentric of butterfly is also have a go at it as the red - blot empurpled butterfly stroke .
Pipevine Swallowtail Caterpillar(Battus philenor)
The Pipevine Swallowtail can be identified by its drear - browned body and orangish spindle
There are a number of types of Caterpillar in the swallowtail specie , and the pipevine swallowtail ( Battus philenor ) is a glossy dark brown , almost black diverseness with fleshy spines and two lines of pointed bright orangish bumps along its back .
This is definitely not a large potpourri of cat . The full - grown larvae only reach about 2 ” ( 5 cm ) in length . As the larvae mature , they evolve into a reddish type of caterpillar covered in tiny fine hairs .
Other interesting type of swallowtail cat let in some of the following :
Type of Furry or Fuzzy Caterpillars with Pictures – Caterpillar Identification
haired case of caterpillars can be some of the most entrancing larvae around . Here are some of the interesting type offurry caterpillars .
The Sycamore Tussock Caterpillars(Halysidota harrisii)
The Sycamore Tussock cat is a fuzzy caterpillar
The sycamore tussock caterpillar ( Halysidota harrisii ) is a light yellow or whitish furry caterpillar common to the Eastern United States and Mexico .
The whole body of this fuzzy caterpillar is covered in long fine chicken - bloodless hair . Its striking foggy coming into court is enhanced by two tuft of long blurred vertebral column at its head teacher and tail ends — two are orange near the pass , and two are white .
Although the fine pilus are not toxicant , repeated handling of them can cause skin vexation and hives .
As their name suggests , these sycamore tussock caterpillars feed on the leaves of sycamore tree . A large number of these hairy caterpillars can also damage the wellness of a scottish maple tree diagram .
The Woollybear Caterpillar(Pyrrharcita isabella)
The Woollybear Caterpillar is a furry type of caterpillar with black and orange hairs
One of the identifying feature article of the woollybear caterpillar ( Pyrrharcita isabella ) is its furry black bleary consistence with a orangish band around its middle . This hairy caterpillar species is also called the Isabella Panthera tigris moth or banded woolly bear .
This hairy - looking caterpillar may resemble a small bottle cleaner due to is short bristles . This Negro and orange fuzzy caterpillar grows to about 2 ” ( 5 cm ) in distance and is common in North America and Europe . This blurred cat also survives well in cold climates .
In fact , one of the singular feature of this woolly dirt ball is its power to make it the cold . ordinarily , during winter month caterpillars have to pupate to get through the wintertime . However , woollybears develop a chemical substance that acts as antifreeze in their consistence .
This caterpillar species rarely becomes a garden pestilence . Although they wipe out garden plants , they do n’t consume so much as to cause scathe .
Even though this cat is call ‘ woolly , ’ it does n’t have a diffuse touch to it . Its bristles have a spiky feel and may cause some cutis irritation if handle too much .
Not all woollybear caterpillars have a black - Orange River colour . There is also the scandalmongering woollybear ( Spilosoma virginica ) which has a pale - yellow colour . This transforms into the Virginia tiger moth after metamorphosis .
Puss (Southern Flannel Moth) Caterpillar(Megalopyge opercularis)
The Southern Flannel caterpillar is a type of belittled furry cat
The southern flannel ( Megalopyge opercularis ) is also call the Pansa caterpillar and is a smalltype of downlike hairy caterpillar .
One of the identifying features of thisvenomous caterpillaris its long hairy beige - orange tail . Also , some types of this woolly caterpillar have orangish demarcation bleed down each side .
Even though this calculate like a soft flossy caterpillar , it is not one you require to handle . voiced - wait pale orange hair cover rows of poisonous spines that can give you a nasty bunko . In some instance , an allergic reaction to the hustle of this caterpillar could have serious consequence .
Some people say that the puss cat resembles a disheveled orange tree toupe .
American Dagger(Acronicta americana)
The American Dagger cat has a distinct hairy feel
The longsighted lean spines on the American sticker coinage of caterpillar ( Acronicta americana ) give it a distinguishable fuzzy look . The inglorious markings on thiswhite caterpillaralso add to its striking fuzzy appearance . You will also notice long black pencil hairs poking up from its back .
Some types of these caterpillars also have a yellowish colouring material . Due to the shaggy nature of the hairs , it can be difficult to see the pitch-black head underneath its yellow “ head of hair . ” You have to handle this hairy caterpillar with precaution as the short icteric hairs are mildly toxic .
Fluffy American dagger caterpillars love to satiate on oak , elm , willow , hickory , and birch tree go away .
European Gypsy Caterpillar(Lymantria dispar dispar)
The European Gypsy caterpillar is a hairy type of caterpillar with red and downhearted window pane
The European gypsy caterpillar ( Lymantria dispar dispar ) is aboriginal to Europe , Asia , and most of the States in the US include California . The amply - grownhairy caterpillarcan acquire up to 2 ” ( 5 cm ) in distance , thus making it a small type of cat than some of the huge assortment .
This farsighted thin fuzzy caterpillar has a whitish appearance with what look like red and risque lead lamps on its back . These spots are what help identify this cat from other specie . Long thin blanched hairs protrude from its sides , head , and tail end . There are also clustering of shorter black hairs run down its back .
Because of the incredible damage that these furry bugs can do , the European gypsy cat is considered a plague . You should also avoid handling the spiky creature as the fuzzy hairs can cause hide irritation .
Silver-Spotted Tiger Caterpillar(Lophocampa argentata)
The Silver - Spotted Tiger caterpillar has black and orange furry appearance
One black and orange fuzzy type of caterpillar is the atomic number 47 - spotted Panthera tigris specie ( Lophocampa argentata ) . This gently - toxic variety of cat has a hirsute appearing resembling the stripes of a tiger .
Usually , this type of cat is found on fir trees on the West seashore of North America including California , Nevada , Colorado , andArizona .
Emperor Moth Caterpillar (Saturnia pavonia)
The Emperor caterpillar has yellow and black dot on its bombastic unripened torso
The Saturnia pavonia moth caterpillar is a large green crawling dirt ball with lowly xanthous spiky growth ( tubercles ) around its segments . cheeseparing - up picture of this caterpillar show tussock of fine white tomentum emerging from the emperor butterfly moth caterpillar ’s yellowish and ignominious bumps . The dark gullible caterpillars grow up to 2.4 ” ( 6 cm ) long .
Emperor moth larvae can be severe to recognize during their growth stages ( instar ) . The grovel “ grub ” emerge black and gradually turn green as they fatten up up . However , some coinage of emperormoth caterpillarsstay dark , almost inglorious with yellow dots on the bodies .
Tiger Swallowtail caterpillar (Papilio glaucus)
The dark-green Panthera tigris swallowtail caterpillar has eye - similar marking on its head
The tiger swallow-tailed coat cat is an unusual dark unripe cat due to its middle - like spots on its head . Some characteristics of the swallowtail cat are a yellow band behind its header , faux middle , a smooth unripe body , and four pairs of stumpy prolegs . The caterpillar grows up to 2.2 ” ( 5.5 atomic number 96 ) long .
A justificative feature of the tiger swallowtail is that it unloosen a putrid odor when endanger . Like some other species of green caterpillar , it may exhibit a branch capitulum like a serpent ’s tongue from behind its heading .
Luna moth caterpillar (Actias luna)
The large Luna caterpillar has green carinate body with red acid
The luna moth caterpillar is a sizeable bright unripened larva with an almost translucent body with quarrel of reddened setaceous gibbosity . Some recognizable features of the luna moth caterpillar are its oval brown promontory , three pair of front legs , burred red Elvis along its back and sides , and four pairs of large prolegs .
When it turn over maturity date , the luna moth caterpillar grows to around 3.5 ” ( 9 centimetre ) long . you may spot this big cat feeding on birch , hickory , walnut , and alder tree leaves .
Garden Tiger caterpillar (Arctia caja)
The foggy garden tiger moth caterpillar has black , orange and gray hair - like spines
The garden Panthera tigris caterpillar is a furryblack and orange caterpillarwith recollective feathery spines that make the caterpillar look like a porcupine . The garden Panthera tigris has a black organic structure , and its fuzzy spines are a grey - clean , black , or orangish color . Also , the “ woolly ” cat has an orange headland and light copper - colored striation along its sides .
The garden tiger cat is a type of woolly stick out caterpillar . The furred caterpillar grows up to 2.4 ” ( 6 cm ) long . Its long milky spine and fuzzy eubstance help protect the larva against marauder .
Cabbage White Butterfly Caterpillar (Pieris rapae)
The green Cabbage White Butterfly Caterpillar is ordinarily bump on cruciferous vegetables
The long , flimsy , green cabbage white caterpillar has an identifiable yellowish - green consistence and a slightly fuzzy appearance . As its name suggests , this caterpillar species gorges on cabbage foliage as it grow to maturity . Due to its esurient appetency , the green caterpillar is a important garden plague .
The white cabbage caterpillar produce up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 cm ) long . Unlike many other types of green caterpillar , this green larval dirt ball has a slender physical structure without obtrusive segments .
Scarce Dagger Caterpillar (Acronicta auricoma)
The Scarce Dagger cat has pale dots on the back of its contraband body with orange / yellow spikes
The scarce dagger cat is a furry black caterpillar with recognizable tuft of orange hairs . appear closely at this caterpillar , you ’ll notice that each section has bands of orangey swelling with hairs ( setae ) growing from them . The scarce dagger caterpillar bill 1.4 ” ( 3.5 cm ) long when fledged .
Depending on the instar , the scarce dagger cat face like a blurry orange or a black cat with orangish hairs and bright white or yellowed DoT .
Mourning Cloak Caterpillar (Nymphalis antiopa)
The spiky smuggled bereavement cloak caterpillar has orange - cherry-red markings and diminutive white dots on its body
Also called the spiny elm caterpillar , the mourn cloak larvae is ablack spiky caterpillarwith eight orange tufts of forgetful hairs along its back , tiny white dots , and menacing - looking sarcoid fateful prickle . Although the grim cat looks like it stings , it is alone harmless . mourn cloak caterpillars grow up to 2 ” ( 5 atomic number 96 ) long .
To spot mourning cloak caterpillars , see for the spiny black larvae eating on white basswood , aspen , nettle tree , and birch tree trees . As the common name suggests , Nymphalis antiopais often found eating its manner through elm tree diagram leave behind .
Azalea Caterpillar (Datana major)
The Azalea Caterpillar has a stripy immature and black body with orange head and tail
The azalea caterpillar is a fateful and yellow or green striped cat with a large , rounded orange or rusty brown head . The several yellowish - green chevron on the cat run lengthways . As the long striped worm - like worm raise , long white prickle and orangey - red feet germinate as it matures .
Mature azalea caterpillars matured to 2 ” ( 5 cm ) . The hungry caterpillar can quickly skeletonize leave , and you could see them feeding on azaleas , rhododendrons , and blueberry bush .
Yellow Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Lophocampa maculata)
The yellow - spotted tuft caterpillar has a typical look with its chicken and black hairs
The yellow - spotted tuft caterpillar is a fuzzyyellow and sinister caterpillarcovered in backbone , lay down it appear like a bottle coppice . The characteristics of this small cat are a furry black tail and head , long pencil - thin white spiky hairs , a yellow central band , and four bootleg dit on its back . you may tell apart this yellow tussock caterpillar eating on oak tree , willow tree , maple , and poplar tree diagram leaves .
yellowed - spotted tuft caterpillars grow up to 1 ” ( 2.5 cm ) long .
Black and Yellow Zebra Caterpillar (Melanchra picta)
The black and yellow striped zebra cat can be identified by its reddish - brown header
The stunning zebra cat has a black body with zebra - similar icteric figure run longitudinally in four stripes . The thirsty cat have a rounded orangish - bronze top dog and shadower end . Immature larvae are mainly livid with black head . By the last microscope stage , the caterpillars turn into colourful insect with interesting striped patterns .
Zebra caterpillars grow up to 1.6 ” ( 4 cm ) long . Before turn into the American noctuid moth , the caterpillar can be found gorging on lettuce , beet , and other root vegetable leaves .
Mullein Moth Caterpillar (Cucullia verbasci)
The beautiful mullein moth caterpillar is identify by its white-hot or pallid green body with black and yellow spots
The mullein moth caterpillar is a spectacular whitish - white-haired cat with black - recognize chicken patches and black dots in random pattern . ikon of this fateful and yellow cat show three pairs of pointed invertebrate foot at the straits and four dyad of black and ashen prolegs . Also , look for diminished tufts of white or contraband brusque rachis cover its back . Mullein moth caterpillar acquire to 2 ” ( 5 centimeter ) long .
Due to its hopeful color , it ’s easy to name the mullein moth caterpillar as it crunch onbuddleia plantleaves . The hungry fawn insect can quickly defoliate shrubs as they bung during July and August .
Cinnabar Caterpillar (Tyria jacobaeae)
The cinnabar caterpillar has yellow and grim stripes with fine hairs on its trunk
The cinnabar is a striped cat with black and yellow stripes around its soundbox . characteristic of the Callimorpha jacobeae caterpillar let in black and orange prolegs , black frontal legs , and feathery spine cohere out from its body . The black and orange striped caterpillar maturate 1.2 ” ( 3 centimeter ) long .
The cinnabar caterpillar is a eccentric of vicious caterpillar to vulture . The stripy caterpillar gullet on ragwort which build up toxins in the caterpillar .
The cinnabar caterpillars feed in groups , mainly in the daytime , from July to early September .
Queen Butterfly Caterpillar (Danaus gilippus)
Queen Caterpillar has black and white stripes with yellow scoring
One of the most spectacular colorful Caterpillar you could see is the queenbutterfly caterpillar . The trait of the queen caterpillar are long , overweight , tentacle - like spines , a black and white stripy body with icteric loony toons and black tentacle . In addition , the queen larvae mostly gorge on milkweed , make them loathsome to predators .
Oleander Caterpillar (Syntomeida epilais)
The Nerium oleander caterpillar has orangish body with black bumps and tufts of hair
The oleander caterpillar is a brightly - colored orange cat with farseeing , straight pencil - flimsy black tufts of hairs emerging from fateful bumps along its sides . Other characteristic of the orange caterpillar ’s appearance are black mark circumvent the dead body and tufts of brusk black , non - stinging spinal column on its back . Mature oleander caterpillars grow to around 1.5 ” ( 4 cm ) long .
Oleander caterpillars are common in Florida , where they feed on oleander plants . Unfortunately , the cat are a pain in the neck in Florida gardens , where they quickly defoliate shrub when feeding on leaf .
Stinging Rose caterpillar (Parasa indetermina)
The Stinging Rose caterpillar has clusters of toxic stiletto heel along its body
The stinging rose caterpillar is a straight - look orange tree or icteric caterpillar with jaggy spines that cause skin botheration when handled . The appearance of the stick rose cat has a band of violet and light blue grade insignia run down its back . There are also pocket-sized tuft ofstinging spinesalong the cat ’s sides .
Like the oleander caterpillar , bite rose caterpillars are commonly found in Florida , South Georgia , Texas , and Oklahoma . You will spot the spiky orangey - yellow caterpillars on rose wine , where they make severe wrong to foliage .
Saddleback caterpillar (Acharia stimulea)
The Saddleback cat has briary venomous French horn that cause painful sting
One of the most strange caterpillars is the saddleback cat . This stinging insipid cat has largeprotruding hornswith jaggy spikes on them . The identifiable characteristic of the caterpillar is the saddle - like fleeceable marking on its back . This trait give the saddleback caterpillar a look as if it has a green coating with a large brownish patch in the middle .
As one of the scariest - await Caterpillar , the saddleback cat has urticating orangish bristle ( twinge spines ) on its body and long cornet . The sting from a saddleback can cause bother , a skin rash , and potential nausea .
Io Moth Caterpillar (Automeris io)
The Io moth caterpillar has green spike that experience very unpleasant if their spitefulness penetrates your skin
The Io moth larva is a striking caterpillar with vivacious green colour and bunch of urticating spines . It has a unslaked lime gullible body with two sidelong stripe — one white and one red . Its most striking lineament is its rows of spiky , venomous - looking light green spines .
The Io moth cat rise up to 2.7 ” ( 7 cm ) . During its several growth stages , the green caterpillar feed on various host plant , include oak , maple , dogwood , and sycamore leaves . It is commonly found in open woodlands , garden , and meadow throughout North America .
White Flannel Moth Caterpillar (Norape ovina)
The white flannel moth caterpillar is a venomous yellow cat covered in foresighted , silky white hairs . Its identifying feature are the black band on its orangish - yellow organic structure , tuft of stinging whisker , milklike spots on its organic structure , with reddish brown - discolor tips . Despite its lenient , fluffy appearing , the colorful cat can inflict cruddy stings .
The blanched flannel moth caterpillar grow 1 ” to 1.25 ” ( 2.5 – 3.1 cm ) long . you’re able to retrieve this bite caterpillar gorging on foliage throughout the Eastern United States and western United States to Montana and Texas .
White-Marked Tussock Caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma)
The hirsute white - commemorate tussock cat is well key out by its unique look
The white - marked tussock caterpillar is a hirsute cat with distinctive tussock of white and pitch-dark hairs . It has a red head , a fatal body with xanthous stripes , and four classifiable creamy toothbrush - like white tuft on its back . The white-livered and black cat also has long disgraceful spines on its back and white tufts along its sides .
The white - brand tuft caterpillar grows up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 atomic number 96 ) long . Although it looks furred , touch the fine hairs ( setae ) can make an allergic peel reaction . The cat reel a grey cocoon before the adult moth emerge two workweek later .
Crowned Slug Caterpillar (Isa textula)
The top slug cat is one of the most stunning and singular caterpillars in North America . It has a drop , pennant - like , sick green body and wrangle of spiky , deadly - looking prickle . The caterpillar has two distinctive yellow lines on its back , a pair of horn at the front , and tuft of stinging spines on its arse .
The crown slug caterpillar grows around 0.6 ” ( 2.5 curium ) long . Its flattened show , spiny sound projection , and ridge back make this gullible caterpillar easy to key out .
Spiny Oak Slug Caterpillar (Euclea delphinii)
The spiny oak tree slug caterpillar is well identifiable by its bright green organic structure with bunch of orange spine - like trump . Other characteristic of this striking caterpillar are its two orangish and white bands on its back , orbitual green patterns , and a flattened appearance . It also has venom - filled stinging tubercles .
The spiny oak tree slug caterpillar turn up to 0.8 ” ( 3 cm ) long . Although its primary color is greenish , it can be chiefly orangish or dark immature and yellow , depending on the caterpillar .
Monkey Slug Caterpillar (Phobetron pithecium)
The hairs on the scallywag slug caterpillar can cause skin soreness
The monkey slug cat is one of the most unusual caterpillars due to its slug - corresponding , browned , hairy appearance . The caterpillar has nine couplet of wave projection on a flattened body . Pictures of the typical caterpillar show it like a convoluted mess of fur . Its stumpy legs underneath its body are sucking cup .
The monkey slug caterpillar mature 0.6 ” to 1 ” ( 1.5 – 2.5 atomic number 96 ) long . The brown hairs are rag and can cause pelt irritation when cover . It tend to feed on leafage from deciduous Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree .
Giant Leopard Moth Caterpillar (Hypercompe scribonia)
The giant Panthera pardus moth caterpillar is a blurry pitch-black larva with red stripe . This “ woolly bear ” cat is identified by its subdued , fuzzy show and reddish stripes appear when the caterpillar curls . Despite its flaccid appearance , its rows of black spines are sharp like needle .
The jumbo leopard moth caterpillar grows up to 2.5 ” ( 6.4 cm ) long . Its contrast opprobrious and red coloration makes it well identifiable . Although it is n’t a stinging cat , its sharp spines can deflate the skin .
Variable Oak Leaf Caterpillar (Lochmaeus manteo)
The varying oak leaf caterpillar can be dangerous as it spit out acid when under threat
The variable oak folio caterpillar is a worm - same , cylindric cat with a striped eubstance . This larva can range in gloss from white-livered to unripe to reddish - dark-brown . It ’s identified by the series of black and yellow bands along its body . It also has flimsy and wispy setae along its sides and back .
The variable oak leaf caterpillar produce up to 1.5 ” ( 3.8 centimeter ) long . A defensive feature of this slug - similar larva is its power to spray formic acid . This compound can cause spartan pelt pique or blisters .
Hickory Tussock Caterpillar (Lophocampa caryae)
The black and white hickory tussock cat is a type of hairy caterpillar
The hickory tussock caterpillar is a black and white hairy caterpillar , identified by its tuft of black pencil hairs — two at the head and two at the rear . This strange caterpillar has a black head and black dots along its side . Its legion wispy spines can embed themselves in the hide .
The hickory tussock caterpillar raise up to 1.7 ” ( 4.5 cm ) long before pupation . When feed , the thirsty larvae skeletonize forget as they feed in chemical group of 100 larvae or more . It spin around a cocoon and overwinters in foliage litter .
Banded Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Halysidota tessellaris)
The banded tuft moth larva is a fuzzy cat covered in silvery - grizzly hairs . Like many tussock moth larvae , this species has tufts of long pencil tomentum at its rear and head . A characteristic of this caterpillar is the blackish stripe along its back . It has a bright orange principal and sometimes xanthous spots along its body .
The banded tuft moth caterpillar grows up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 centimeter ) long . Its fuzzy appearance may await harmless , but the sparse setae can make skin provocation if you handle it .
Sycamore Moth Caterpillar (Acronicta aceris)
The muzzy great maple moth caterpillar has orange - yellow hair and blanched point along its body
The great maple moth larva is a spectacular orangish cat with a distinct fuzzy appearance . Identifying features of the low caterpillar are its conical orange tufts , blurry setae , and a dustup of prominent white spot down the eye of its back . Sometimes , the caterpillar has a white ancestry rather than item-by-item dot .
The plane tree moth cat grows up to 1.5 ” ( 4 cm ) long . The brightly colored Orange River or lily-livered caterpillar is commonly seen on maple trees in late summer and former fall . Despite its beautiful appearance , its pilus are nark and can irritate the skin when tinct .
Milkweed Tiger Moth Caterpillar (Euchaetes egle)
The small milkweed tiger moth caterpillar has ashen , shameful and orange hairy tussock
The milkweed tiger moth larva is a colorful cat that stands out with its contraband and orange - striped physical structure . It has clusters of inglorious , orangish , and white tuft handle its cylindric soundbox . The cat has a black promontory . It is often found feeding in groups of up to ten larva .
The milkweed tiger moth caterpillar grows up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 atomic number 96 ) long . It feed sociably on milkweed flora , skeletonizing leave as it goes through its growth stages .
Yellow Woolly Bear Caterpillar (Spilosoma virginica)
The white-livered woolly bear is a common type of furred cat
The yellow woolly bear caterpillar is a unwashed blurred yellow or sick orange caterpillar . The slug - like larva has a cylindric torso covered in tufts of orange hairs . It also has longsighted hairs bulge from its sides and back . As it grows , it develops black banding in the middle of its consistence .
The xanthous woolly tolerate caterpillar grows up to 2 ” ( 5 atomic number 96 ) long . The mature larvae cast a cocoon in leaf litter on the grease ’s surface before adult moths emerge the following spring .
Garden Tiger Moth Caterpillar (Arctia caja)
The garden Panthera tigris moth caterpillar is a case of “ woolly bear ” cat with a contraband and rust orange hairy body . The small , muzzy caterpillar is characterized by its black bristle and tufts of dark , coppery browned hair extend its body . Sometimes , the caterpillar also has red grading along its sides .
The garden tiger moth caterpillar grows up to 2.4 ” ( 6 cm ) long . It feeds on plants in the daisy kinsfolk , which prepare toxic chemical compound , make the caterpillar poisonous to predators . Its urticating hairs hold back irritating compounds that can cause hide annoying and rashes .
Walnut Caterpillar (Datana integerrima)
Walnut Caterpillars ( Datana integerrima )
The walnut tree cat is a black slug - like larva with a black body and rows of wispy spines . This harmless cat has a rounded black head and rows of lank gray hairs . A distinctive feature film of the caterpillar is its habit of feeding in large groups on walnut trees .
The walnut cat develop up to 1.1 ” ( 3 centimetre ) long .
Salt Marsh Moth Caterpillar (Estigmene acrea)
The hairy saltiness marsh caterpillar can depart in people of color from tan to dark brown , almost black
The common salt marsh moth caterpillar is a bleary caterpillar that can seem pale yellow to rusty orangeness to benighted brown - black colors . discover feature of the larva are its segmented body with orange or black warts , a white dot on each section , and tussock of balmy setae .
The salt marsh moth caterpillar grows around 2 ” ( 5 cm ) long . The larva creates a cocoon from its own whisker before twine itself in a leaf to pupate . sensationalistic and orange adult moths emerge in outflow .
Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea)
The fall webworm is a long cigar - determine caterpillar with varying coloration , ranging from disconsolate gray to pale sensationalistic . mutual characteristic of fall webworm are the two creamy stripes along the sides , tufts of longsighted and light bristle , and yellow spots . The athirst Caterpillar live in largetent - like structures at the ends of branch .
The fall webworm cat grows up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 cm ) long . The justificatory mechanisms of the cat admit irritating spinous hairs , repellent scents , and a jerk motion to deter predators .
Pale Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Calliteara pudibunda)
The wan tuft cat has yellow tufts of fuzz and black bands on its body
The pallid tuft moth caterpillar is a impinge on haired caterpillar with bright lemon - chickenhearted hairs covering its eubstance . classifiable feature of speech of the caterpillar are its four soup-strainer - like creamy white tufts , black bands , and a lime - unripe organic structure . to boot , the bleary larva has pronounced violent pencil hairs at its arse destruction .
The pale tussock moth caterpillar grows up to 2 ” ( 5 centimetre ) long . Despite its flaccid , fuzzy appearing , touching the hairs can make pelt irritation . colour variations think the caterpillar sometimes has a rusty browned semblance .
Fox Moth Caterpillar (Macrothylacia rubi)
The furry black George Fox moth caterpillar has orange mark along its back
The George Fox moth cat is a great , strikingblack and orange caterpillarwith a haired show . It has a black body covered in tussock of fatal hairs . Also , orangish or yellow bar along its back create a striking appearance . The cat also has a rounded black look .
The slyboots moth caterpillar can grow up to 3.1 ” ( 8 centimetre ) long . As the wooden-headed , juicy larva matures , it lose its orangish markings and develops a darker coming into court . However , it is always report in disastrous or tawny colour seta .
Virginia Ctenucha Caterpillar (Ctenucha virginica)
Virginia Ctenucha caterpillar ( Ctenucha virginica )
The Virginia ctenucha is a beautiful hairy black and yellow cat with pronounced tussock of hair covering its body . This salient caterpillar is easily recognise by its black , xanthous , and white hairy tufts , its red-faced header , and red prolegs . Some instars show the foggy cat to be mostly white and yellow .
The small Virginia ctenucha cat grows up to 1 ” ( 2.5 cm ) long . Endemic to North America , the Virginia ctenucha develop into a stunning metal - blue-blooded moth with a bright orangish head word .
Peacock Caterpillar (Aglais io)
The Peacock caterpillar can be identified by its black bristle and tiny white dots on its body
The Inachis io caterpillar is a long black , white - spotted caterpillar with sarcoid disgraceful spines . This butterfly stroke cat has a long , cylindrical pitch-black body covered in white fleck . Each segment turn back pointed protuberance with humble dig - like spine . It has a circular head and thin whitened hair sparsely covering its black soundbox .
The peacock cat grows up to 1.6 ” ( 4.2 cm ) long . The cat build up nests of silken threads incubate the host plant . The ignominious caterpillar go forth from the cocoon as a beautiful blood-red butterfly with eye - like markings on its wing .
Red Admiral Caterpillar (Vanessa atalanta)
The cherry-red admiral caterpillar has black spiky body with tiny white dots
The red admiral cat is a prominent , stumpy cat with a black trunk treat in rows of heavy spines . Identifying feature of the cat are its white-livered marking along its sides , small white hairs , and tiny white dots on its back , prolegs , and sides . Late instar show the cat as a glum brown , blank - spotted larva .
The blood-red admiral caterpillar grow up to 1.4 ” ( 3.5 cm ) long . The contraband , spiky caterpillar turns into an attractive butterfly stroke with obscure dark-brown annex and vivacious red band .
Sweet Gale Moth Caterpillar (Acronicta euphorbiae)
The fresh gale moth caterpillar is a little caterpillar with a black eubstance get across in tufts of black and white hairs . This spiky black cat has a noticeable orange - blood-red band along its side of meat and a faint grayish - silver isthmus on its back . after instars show the cat with gray , orange , and white band along its torso .
The sweet-smelling gale moth caterpillar grows up to 1.3 ” ( 3.3 cm ) long . After pupation , it emerges from the cocoon as a colourful , furry brown moth with white and grey mottled wing patterns .
Erasmia pulchella
The Erasmia pulchella cat has a shiny black eubstance with yellow plot of ground on the back , cherry-red dots on the sides and is covered with spikes
Erasmia pulchellais an eye - catching black cat known for its vivacious two xanthous primal segment . The spiny larva is acknowledge by its rocky segment and red spinal column along its side , which have long white hairs . The black and yellow caterpillar also exude toxic compounds as a demurrer mechanics .
The beautiful erasmia cat produce up to 1.5 column inch ( 3.8 cm ) long . After going through its larval stagecoach , the beautiful erasmia caterpillar spin a cocoon and transforms into an grownup moth . The adult moth is do it for its colorful and intricate formula , making it a beautiful moth .
Copper Underwing Moth Caterpillar (Amphipyra pyramidoides)
The copper underwing moth caterpillar is a tumid lime unripened cat with a yellowed and blanched bar lead along its sides . standardized to hornworms , the large , plump larva has dot pale green DoT , tiny eye - same markings , and a marked bump at its tail ending . When resting , the caterpillar countermand its front end .
The copper color underwing moth caterpillar grows up to 2 ” ( 5 centimetre ) long . Despite its size of it , it is often well shroud among the leaves of its host plants thanks to its green color . After pupation , the caterpillar is a stunning moth with coppery underwings .
Oleander Hawk Moth Caterpillar (Daphnis nerii)
Oleander hawk moth caterpillar ( Daphnis nerii )
The Nerium oleander hawk moth caterpillar is a large green caterpillar with entrancing metallic blue eyespots . The place features of this native caterpillar are its white stripe and spots along its position , chickenhearted seat - like protrusion , and short , stumpy prolegs on its heart segments . Just before pupation , the caterpillar becomes brown .
The huge gullible rose bay hawk moth caterpillar grows 3 ” to 3.3 ” ( 7.5 – 8.5 cm ) long . After emerging from the cocoon , the insect is a stunning unripened moth with leaf - like patterns on its wings .
Box Tree Moth Caterpillar (Cydalima perspectalis)
Box Tree Caterpillar ( Cydalima perspectalis )
The loge Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree moth larva is a fleeceable caterpillar discover by its black , yellow , and blank longitudinal stripes . The stripy cat also features smuggled tubercles with white spines and distich of black bumps in two words . The striped caterpillar has a ravening appetite and can quickly defoliateboxwood plantsif leave unchecked .
Promethea Silkmoth (Callosamia promethea)
The Promethea silkmoth is an strange green cat with colored trump and prolegs . The caterpillar has a segmented unslaked lime - green torso with four ruby-red protrusions at its head teacher and a yellow one at its posterior last . Also , row of blue dots run longitudinally on its plump green consistency .
The Promethea silkmoth caterpillar grow between 1.77 ” and 2.36 ” ( 4.5 – 6 curium ) long . It ’s easily recognisable due to its plump , cigar - similar appearance . After pupating , it turns into a stunning large silk - producing moth with decorative brown wings .
Virginia Creeper Sphinx Moth Caterpillar (Darapsa Myron)
The Virginia crawler sphinx moth larva is a great fleeceable caterpillar with diagonal white band on its side . This unusual caterpillar also has a horn - like jut at its rearward , pocket-sized light greenish and brownish markings on its back , and a bulging school principal . It ’s also handle in pale green speckles .
The full-bodied Virginia crawler sphinx moth caterpillar grow 2 ” ( 5 centimetre ) long . Before pupation , the caterpillar turns purplish - brown . It emerge from the cocoon as a beautiful browned moth .
Gray Furcula Moth Caterpillar (Furcula cinerea)
The grey-headed furcula moth larva is a alone cat with a bright immature and brown leaf - like pattern on its back . This strange cat has a distinct humpbacked appearance , a pair of long , curved French horn at its can , and two small horn - like projection at its flatten head .
The gray furcula moth caterpillar can grow up to 2 ” ( 5 centimeter ) long . It ’s backbreaking to distinguish because of its gullible color and camouflage , resemble a decomposed leaf .
Snowberry Clearwing Moth Caterpillar (Hemaris diffinis)
The snowberry clearwing moth larva is a unique green caterpillar resembling a little , fatty Hydra . The fleeceable caterpillar is identified by its shiny gullible color , xanthous and blueish stripes , and a ignominious motor horn - similar projection on its rear end . The cat also has small pitch-dark dot and bumpy projection along its body .
The common snowberry clearwing moth caterpillar grows up to 2 ” ( 5 cm ) long . After pupation , the green caterpillar go forth as a small moth resembling a bumble bee or blurred hummingbird .
Common Buckeye Caterpillar (Junonia coenia)
The black and brown common buckeye caterpillar has some colour version
The common buckeye caterpillar is a multi - colored , typical caterpillar with vibrant orange and black stripe . name feature of the larva are its spiky ejection along its soundbox , bulb-shaped orangish head , and white and blood-red - orange point . Some color variations are disastrous and white and almost entirely black .
The common buckeye caterpillar grows up to 1.6 ” ( 4 cm ) long . The larva pupates by whirl a silky brown enclosure in the manakin of the missive “ J. ” The adult is a sensational browned and orange butterfly with several eyespots on its wings .
Georgian Prominent Caterpillar (Hyperaeschra georgica)
The Georgian spectacular larva is a green cat , easy to recognize due to its bright jaundiced streak along its sides . feature of this expectant cat are its pallid dark-green dotted words , bulgy green question , and orange - red bump at its rear . It also has ocellus near its prolegs .
The Georgian striking cat can develop up to 1.6 ” ( 4 cm ) long . The green caterpillar metamorphoses into a gray - brown , muzzy moth .
Imperial Moth Caterpillar (Eacles imperialis)
The large imperial moth caterpillar has dark brown body with spines and pale yellow spots along its side
The imperial moth larva is a jumbo dark brown caterpillar with bumpy segments , yellow slur , and wispy seta . Other identifying feature of the horrible caterpillar are its erose - looking spines , bulgy orange and black mind , and large pungent , fateful horn - like projection at its head . Through its outgrowth level , the cat becomes sorry until it looks almost black with bright yellow smirch .
The imperial moth cat grows up to 4 ” ( 10 centimeter ) long . Despite its sizing and menacing appearing , the caterpillar is n’t aggressive and does n’t sting . It tunnel into the soil to pupate at maturity and finally emerges as an grownup moth .
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