The Hickory Tussock Moth's caterpillar is one of the most recognizable of eastern forests: a fuzzy black-and-white caterpillar with pencil-like tufts of black hair at each end and a row of white tufts along the sides. The hairs can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. The adult moth is creamy white with brown spots and is attracted to lights.
Habitat
Deciduous forests, woodland edges, and suburban trees
Diet
Larvae: hickory, walnut, oak, and other hardwoods. Adults: do not feed
How common
Common
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