Black-waved Flannel Caterpillar

Wow! Now that's fluffy!

Now that I see It, so do I! I gave it my best shot! ;)

Thanks Karen,
I think Jacob has nailed this one..

Thanks J!

Hi Lisa, Nice spotting! I've never seen one of these guys in person, but I'm positive this is an early instar of a flannel moth. The other possible species is the Yellow Flannel Moth, which are supposed to be relatively indistinguishable in these early instars. Bugguide doesn't have any photographs of Yellow Flannel Moth Caterpillars. It is my understanding from what I have read that the Black-waved Flannel moth is more common, which is why I suggested it. I'm basing my information off of the Princeton Field Guide to Caterpillars.

I'm not so sure about my ID suggestion.... the fella in your pic doesn't have the black "whiskers" . Another possibility may be American Dagger. Bugguide was being difficult this morning and wouldn't let me search for this one for some reason. Anyway, hope this helps.