Tussock Moth (Caterpillar/Moth)

Found in deciduous and coniferous forests, orchards, parks, and suburban gardens across North America.

Larvae are generalist feeders on foliage of many trees including oak, birch, maple, and apple; adults do not feed.

Caterpillars are active during the day; females are wingless and stay on their cocoons to lay egg masses covered in a protective white foam.

The larval hairs can cause skin irritation (urticating) or allergic reactions in humans; they can be occasional pests of ornamental trees by defoliating them.