Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Thyatirid Moths (Family Thyatiridae)

Although the caterpillars of thyatirids superficially resemble those of owlet moths, they are in fact quite closely related to the hooktips. This small family includes but 3 common eastern species. The midabdominal segments bear 12 setae above the proleg, whereas those of many similar-appearing caterpillars have 11 or fewer setae. The head is wider than high and the labrum deeply cleft. Anal prolegs tend to be smaller then those of the mid-abdomen. Crochets of 2 lengths are set in an arching series; a smaller inner series is often present. Caterpillars often shelter within a loosely folded leaf.

Dogwood Thyatirid
(Euthyatira pudens)

Lettered Habrosyne
(Habrosyne scripta)

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