Salt Marsh Caterpillar

Natural Habitat

Fields, gardens, meadows, and salt marshes across North America.

Diet & Feeding

Broad range of host plants including weeds, vegetables (beans, peas, cabbage), and field crops (corn, cotton).

Behavior Patterns

Highly active larvae that crawl rapidly. Known for mass dispersals; they overwinter as pupae in silk-lined cocoons and emerge as white moths.

Risks & Benefits

Generally not harmful to humans, though hairs can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals. They are minor agricultural pests but serve as a food source for birds and parasitic wasps.

Identified on: 5/20/2026