What is this caterpillar or worm - Ask Extension
Saw this on the hood of my car, don't think ever seen anything like this. Not sure if caterpillar, worm or what.
Appeared to have a bit of a jaw on i...
Knowledgebase
What is this caterpillar or worm #877136
Asked July 14, 2024, 8:33 AM EDT
Saw this on the hood of my car, don't think ever seen anything like this. Not sure if caterpillar, worm or what.
Appeared to have a bit of a jaw on it. Is this thing good or bad to have around?
Alpena County Michigan
Expert Response
It appears you have an Elm Sawfly. They can be a pest of some trees but are rarely a major issue unless they are significantly defoliating a tree. Shrews, mice, and birds feed on them. Elm Sawfly populations are often kept in check by parasitoids that feed on them.
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/sawflies/
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/sawflies/
