American Dagger Moth Caterpillar

Deciduous forests, woodlands, parks, and suburban gardens across eastern and central North America

Herbivorous larva that feeds on foliage of broadleaf trees including maple, birch, oak, ash, elm, and willow

Active from mid-summer to autumn, these solitary caterpillars spend time feeding on host plant leaves before crawling away to construct a dense silk and hair cocoon on or under tree bark to overwinter

The yellow/yellow-green hairs contain urticating setae that can cause skin irritation, rashes, or hives upon contact with humans. Beneficial as a food source for birds and parasitoid wasps, and as adult moths they serve as pollinators.