Tussock moth caterpillar

Found on trees, shrubs, fences, and building surfaces, especially in temperate woodland, gardens, and urban areas.

Larvae chew foliage from deciduous and occasionally coniferous plants; adults generally do not feed or feed minimally.

Caterpillars are often hairy, solitary or clustered, and may wander to sheltered sites to pupate. Many species produce conspicuous egg masses covered with hairs from the female.

Barbed hairs can cause itchy skin irritation, eye irritation, or respiratory symptoms in sensitive people. They are important herbivores and support birds, parasitoids, and other predators.