Subject: Paddle caterpillar
Location: Detroit, Oregon
August 10, 2017 9:39 pm
Hi bugman! My family and I went out for a walk and found this little guy hanging out on a leaf. We though you might like to have this photo!
Signature: Kristina Schafer
Dear Kristina,
First we need to commend you on your correct identification of a Paddle Caterpillar, Acronicta funeralis. The first time we received an image of a Paddle Caterpillar many years ago, we tried unsuccessfully to identify it. It is quite a distinctive looking species, and not easily confused with any other caterpillar. Your image is especially beautiful.
I just found one yesterday on an Azalea at a greenhouse I work at in Central Wisconsin! It took me awhile to find out what type it was. Then I read it was very uncommon to see here so I went back today to try and look for it again, and there is was, the same spot I first saw it yesterday!
I photographed a paddle caterpillar in Olmsted Twp., Ohio, on September 11, 2017. I almost didn’t stop to look and see what it was. Luckily, I took two photos. Haven’t seen it since. I understand that the paddle caterpillar is a fairly rare sighting.