Milkweed Tussock Moth Larvae

Fields, meadows, gardens, and wherever milkweed or dogbane is present in North America.

Strictly milkweed (Asclepias species) and dogbane (Apocynum species). They consume the foliage.

Early instars are gregarious, feeding in tight clusters on the undersides of leaves as shown. They skeletonize leaves before dispersing as they mature and develop distinct tufts of hair.

Generally harmless to humans, though hairs on older caterpillars might cause mild irritation to sensitive skin. They compete with monarch butterflies for food but are a native part of the ecosystem.