Caterpillars of Eastern Forests

Colorful Zale (Zale minerea)

Highly variable, similar to lunate zale but coloration more subdued (adults are colorful) and less contrasting. Mottling on head coalesced to form irregular lines, and commonly with white spot to either side of midline; labrum deeply cleft. Vague irregular stripes running length of body. Dorsal area of first abdominal segment often with dark saddle; dorsal area between first and second abdominal segments without or only modest yellow. Commonly with whitish patch above and behind second proleg. Food: many forest hardwoods, possibly spruce and other softwoods. Caterpillar: May to October; 1 generation with partial second.

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