What species is this caterpillar? - Ask Extension
I found this caterpillar on my Pentas plant yesterday (6/30/2024.) It was ~3\4" long. I was concerned it might be the Box Tree Moth caterpillar...
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What species is this caterpillar? #875474
Asked July 01, 2024, 11:14 AM EDT
I found this caterpillar on my Pentas plant yesterday (6/30/2024.) It was ~3\4" long. I was concerned it might be the Box Tree Moth caterpillar, as I have several boxwoods on my property. The pictures I found online did not look exactly like this caterpillar so I want to confirm.
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
This is a hickory tussock moth. It is best to avoid touching hairy caterpillars with bare hands, since their hairs can sometimes cause an adverse reaction with skin.
