Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Horned Spanworm (Nematocampa resistaria)

Unmistakable, with 2 sets of dorsal white-tipped extensible tentacles on second and third abdominal segments. Body variegated with browns and paler markings, occasionally with pink or purple tinting. Raised warts on dorsum of first and eighth abdominal segments. Baggett's horned spanworm (N. baggettaria) occurs along Gulf Coast; its early stages are unknown. Food: many softwoods and hardwoods. Caterpillar: July to October; 2 generations in North.

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