Saddleback Caterpillar

Deciduous forests, fields, orchards, and gardens across eastern North America

Herbivorous, feeding on a wide variety of plants including oak, cherry, maple, corn, and ornamental shrubs

Solitary foliage feeders that move sluggishly using suction-cup-like prolegs; spins a tough silk cocoon incorporating its irritating hairs for protection during pupation

Possesses hollow urticating spines connected to poison glands that cause a severe, painful sting, swelling, and rash upon human skin contact; acts as a minor plant defoliator