Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Lunate Zale (Zale lunata)

All zale caterpillars have elongate bodies, reduced anterior prolegs and darkened ventral spots; they lack subventral fringe present on most underwings. Lunate zale gray or brown heavily marked with black. Head mottled, often black above, and commonly with inverted white V to either side of midline. Dorsal area between first and second abdominal segments commonly yellowed. Spiracular stripe black, undulating, pronounced on abdominal seventh through ninth segments. Food: cherries, maples, oaks, willows, and many other forest trees. Caterpillar: May to November; 1 generation with partial second.

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