Yellow-spotted tussock moth caterpillar

Woodlands, gardens, parks, and areas with deciduous shrubs or trees across much of North America.

Feeds mainly on leaves of deciduous trees and shrubs, including maple, oak, willow, and alder.

Larvae are active mainly from spring through midsummer and may wander while seeking pupation sites. Dense hairs provide protection and can irritate predators.

Contact with the hairs may cause an itchy rash or eye irritation in sensitive people; avoid handling. It is a native herbivore and food source for birds and parasitoids, though heavy infestations can defoliate plants.