Question Mark Caterpillar

Found in wooded areas, edges of forests, city parks, and suburban yards where host plants grow.

Larvae feed on leaves of American Elm, Red Elm, hackberry, Japanese hop, nettle, and false nettle.

The larva is solitary and nocturnal in later stages; it typically rests on the underside of a leaf during the day and feeds at night. The species undergoes a complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Generally harmless to humans; the spines may look intimidating but are not known to sting. They are beneficial pollinators as adults and serve as a food source for birds and predatory insects.