Unknown Insect larvae - Ask Extension
What is this insect larvae?
Knowledgebase
Unknown Insect larvae #869718
Asked May 23, 2024, 7:45 AM EDT
What is this insect larvae?
Sherburne County Minnesota
Expert Response
Hi,
You probably did an Internet search for images/descriptions that matched the larva you have, and that's what I tried. I didn't come up with a match.
It might help to know where you found the caterpillar. What plants or trees were nearby? Do you see signs of feeding on the leaves of those plants or trees? You could try resubmitting your question with more information.
Most of the time plants can withstand some feeding by caterpillars.
Yes, I did do an internet search but could not find anything like it. In the meantime, I let it rest on the asphalt for a couple of hours but I checked on it frequently. Then, I gently picked it up but it definitely did not want to be upside-down and immediately rolled over. There is a bur oak tree within 10 ft. with some lawn grass and some ferns between the asphalt and the tree. I kept it in a container for 2 days then released it in the grass near where I found it. Within a few minutes it moved on to a happier place.
On May 23, 2024, at 10:18 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
It appears that my question was closed without an answer. Do you know of another organization that might be able to help identify this insect larvae?
Thanks,
Dave
On May 23, 2024, at 10:18 AM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
A fellow master gardener seems to have identified the caterpillar!
It looks like the larva stage of the owlet moth. More specifically, maybe an Ilia underwing (Catocala ilia). See:
https://bugguide.net/node/view/776301
That is it!!! Thank you so much for your help.
Dave
On May 30, 2024, at 6:30 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
