The Milkweed Tussock Moth caterpillar is strikingly patterned in alternating black, white, and orange tufts that warn predators of the cardiac glycosides accumulated from milkweed foliage. Young caterpillars feed gregarious in large clusters before dispersing. The adult moth is plain gray with an orange abdomen spotted in black.
Habitat
Open areas with milkweed, meadows, and roadsides
Diet
Larvae: milkweed leaves. Adults: do not feed
How common
Common
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