Hawk-moth caterpillar (likely a white-lined sphinx caterpillar)

Gardens, fields, and other open habitats where its host plants grow; this one is on a succulent, possibly purslane.

Larvae feed on a wide range of plants, including purslane, evening primrose, and grape-family plants.

Caterpillars may be dark with yellow spots and a horn at the rear. They feed mainly at night, then pupate in soil; adults are strong-flying, often night-active moths.

Harmless to people and not venomous; occasional feeding can damage garden plants. Adult moths pollinate flowers.