Banded Tussock Moth Caterpillar

Description:

Caterpillars are covered all over in long, hairlike setae, in tufts. These vary in colour from yellowish and orange to dark gray. Extra long 'hair pencils' of white, black, and/or orange occur at both the front and rear of the caterpillar. The head capsule is bright orange. In the north, mature caterpillars are found from July to frost. Caterpillars frequently rest on the upper surface of leaves, and though not gregarious, are very conspicuous. They grow to a length of 35 mm.

Habitat:

Southeastern deciduous forest in the midlands of South Carolina (Edgefield County)