White-marked tussock moth caterpillar (likely)

Woodlands, gardens, and urban trees across much of North America and Eurasia, depending on species. Caterpillars live on foliage, bark, and nearby structures.

Chews leaves from many deciduous trees and shrubs, including oak, maple, birch, and fruit trees. Feeding is generally external and localized.

The caterpillar has dense white hairs and distinctive tufts; it may wander before pupating in a silken cocoon. Adults are moths, and females of some species are wingless.

Barbed hairs can cause itchy, painful dermatitis or eye irritation; avoid handling and wash exposed skin. It supports birds and parasitoids, though outbreaks can defoliate trees.