American Dagger Moth Caterpillar

Deciduous forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban yards containing host trees across eastern North America.

Leaves of broadleaf trees, particularly oak, maple, birch, elm, ash, and willow.

Solitary feeders that feed during late summer and autumn. When mature, late-instar caterpillars wander away from host trees to find protected pupation sites under bark or in wood crevices.

Setae (hairs) contain mild toxins that can break off and cause contact dermatitis, itching, hives, or skin irritation if handled. They serve as food for birds and beneficial predatory insects, contributing to forest biodiversity.