Subject: Space alien or slug?
Location: Western pennsylvania
July 4, 2015 2:37 pm
July 4th found crawling under grill cover.
Sewickley , PA suburb of Pittsburgh
Signature: Johnnie dex
Dear Johnnie dex,
This is a Tiger Swallowtail Caterpillar, and it will eventually become an adult Tiger Swallowtail, a large yellow and black striped butterfly. Your individual has everted its osmeterium, the forked organ that emits a foul odor, acting as a defense mechanism when the caterpillar feels threatened.
Thank you Daniel,
I had also identified the caterpillar as that of a tiger swallowtail. Although sorta creepy
looking I’m glad I left the caterpillar alone to go its way as eventually a butterfly may result.
Thank you for your quick response.
John