Yesterday I showed a picture of the fuzzy caterpiller of the hickory tussock moth (Lophocampa caryae). So here's the actual moth! It won't be around till springtime, as the larva will overwinter in leaf litter on the forest floor.
The larva, a caterpillar, is completely covered in long, hairlike setae arranged in spreading tufts. Most are white, but there are black tufts along the middle of the back, and four long black hair pencils, two near the front, and two near the back. These hairs cause itchy rashes in some people.[2] They are microscopically barbed and may cause serious medical complications if they are transferred from the hands to the eyes.[3] There are black spots along the sides, and the head capsule is black.
That moth is a beauty! Thanks for sharing it Barbara!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! Its markings are so delicate and looks like lace.
ReplyDeleteLovely lacy moth markings!
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