Io Moth Caterpillar

Fields, forests, and gardens throughout North America, often on host plants like redbud, hibiscus, willow, and oak.

Herbivorous; feeds on a wide variety of plants including birch, clover, corn, elm, maple, and various fruit trees.

Larvae are gregarious in early instars, often traveling in single-file processions. As they mature, they become more solitary. They undergo five to six instars before pupating in a thin, papery cocoon among leaf litter.

Risk: Possesses venomous urticating spines that can cause painful stings, swelling, and rashes in humans. Benefit: Adults are important pollinators and serve as a food source for birds and small mammals.