White-marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar

Natural Habitat

Deciduous and coniferous forests, shrublands, and urban parks/gardens throughout North America.

Diet & Feeding

Broad generalist herbivore; feeds on foliage of many trees including oak, maple, birch, apple, and even some conifers like larch and fir.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are active during the day. They have four distinct white brush-like tufts on their back and two long black hair pencils at the front. Females are flightless and stay on their cocoons to lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: The hairs (setae) are defensive and can cause skin irritation, rashes, or allergic reactions in humans. Large populations can cause significant defoliation to trees. Benefits: They serve as a food source for birds and parasitic insects in the local ecosystem.

Identified on: 4/15/2026