Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Diana Fritillary (Speyeria diana)

Large, nearly black caterpillar with numerous long branched spines over body, these bright orange at their bases. Top of head orange, lower portions black; vertex produced to either side. Great spangled fritillary (S. cybele) with orange of spine bases more subdued, projections on vertex more rounded and orange on head extending farther down "cheeks." Food: violets. Caterpillar: overwintering as first instar, maturing in May and June, 1 generation.

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