Pine Sphinx Caterpillar

Coniferous and mixed forests, particularly areas with various species of pine trees across North America.

The larvae feed on the needles of various pine trees, including White Pine, Red Pine, and Pitch Pine.

They use cryptic coloration to blend in with pine needles. At maturity, they crawl down the tree to pupate in the soil/duff layer over winter.

They pose no risk to humans as they do not sting or bite; they benefit the ecosystem by serving as a food source for birds and small mammals.