Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Pale Tussock Moth (Halysidota tessellaris) [Banded Tussock Moth]

Gray, dirty tan to yellow-brown with long paired white and black lashes on second and third thoracic segments. Those of second thoracic segment projecting forward beyond head. Eighth abdominal segment with third set of lashes. Dark medial dorsal tufts often forming dorsal line. Harris' tussock moth (H. harrisii) pale yellow, middorsal tufts only slightly darkened, and without black lashes; evidently restricted to sycamore. Food: oaks, willows, poplars, hickories, and many other forest and shade trees. Caterpillar: July to October; 1 generation.

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