3/27/2023 0 Comments White marked tussock moth![]() ![]() Once this caterpillar finishes all the foliage on one plant, it will hang from its silk thread and wait for the wind to carry it to its next meal. ![]() A wingless female with egg mass laid on top of her cocoon. They are known to feed on at least 140 species of deciduous and coniferous woody plants. A female White-marked Tussock Moth in Calvert Co., Maryland. Those most severely impacted include, but are not limited to, shade trees, orchards, Christmas tree plantations, and blueberry crops.įun Fact: White-marked Tussock Moth caterpillars are not picky eaters. Outbreaks happen approximately every 15 years lasting for a duration of 2-5 years, which can cause severe defoliation of many plant species. When overly large populations occur in a season, otherwise known as outbreak populations, much damage can be done. These caterpillars emerge in late June and remain present through to August. The toxin-laden hair woven into the cocoon can remain active for more than a year. It goes without saying that people should avoid skin contact with these caterpillars, but that’s not all! The cocoon spun by these spiky fiends is made of its own silk and hair. The toxin on the hair tufts is able to penetrate the skin, which can lead to allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, including redness, irritation, welts, and/or respiratory issues. If you see the white hickory tussock moth caterpillar, don't touch it. These toxin-laden pom poms are also barbed, adding an extra bite should something come into contact with them. PITTSBURGH - A venomous caterpillar from Canada has recently been spotted in parts of central Pennsylvania. It also has four round tufts on its back behind its head, which bear resemblance to little pom poms. Black, quill-like hair strands stick out from both sides of its reddish-orange head, while the rest of its body is covered in spiky, black and white tufts. It measures about 35 mm in length and is covered by a variety of toxin-laden hair tufts. The White-marked Tussock Moth caterpillar is abundant in eastern North America and its range extends as far west as Alberta. Name: White-marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar ( Orgyia leucostigma) ![]()
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