Looking something like a Yorkshire Terrier, or a dragon in a Chinese New Year parade, a White-marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma). Not a caterpillar to be picked up since those cute hairs can easily puncture your skin and cause hives and a skin rash. Those four white tufts on the right side can also lean toward yellow.
Look but don’t touch!
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2 responses to “White-marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar”
Brenda,
Did you take this picture in Virginia?
VERY interesting as we did not include this one in The Cleopatra Project – Poisonous animals in Virginia. We did include Hickory Tussock Moth caterpillar (Lophocampa caryae)
Comments? Alfred
Hi Alfred! Yes, this caterpillar was photographed right at my front steps on blueberry leaves. I have read, that those hairs *only* create a reaction (hives, rash) if one has sensitive skin. Still, I would avoid it, and give most anything my respect and leave it alone in its own world. My sister though, picks up EVERYTHING. No regard to her own safety!
Hoping you are well!
Thanks bunches for reading my posts!
Bren