Subject: caterpillar
Location: Manassas, VA
September 30, 2012 11:55 am
Two years in a row I found this in my back yard, but have never seen one before. Can you ID this?
Signature: Brent in Manassas, VA
Hi Brent,
This is the caterpillar of the White Marked Tussock Moth. BugGuide warns: “CAUTION: Avoid handling the caterpillar, as its hair is known to cause allergic reactions, especially in areas of the body with sensitive skin (e.g. back, stomach, inner arms). Seek medical treatment if a severe reaction occurs.”