Milkweed tussock moth caterpillar (early instar)

Milkweed plants in meadows, roadsides, prairies, gardens, and other sunny habitats across much of North America.

Feeds primarily on milkweed leaves, flowers, and seed pods; older caterpillars can consume substantial foliage and accumulate milkweed toxins.

Young larvae often feed communally in groups and become covered with dense black, white, and orange setae as they mature. They eventually pupate in a loose silken cocoon containing larval hairs, with adults emerging as gray moths.

Not dangerous to handle, though hairs may mildly irritate sensitive skin. It helps regulate milkweed growth and supports predators adapted to chemically defended caterpillars; it is not generally a serious crop pest.