The caterpillar in images “A” and “B” is believed to be an immature, or early instar. It was only about one inch long and skinny. These caterpillars change in appearance as they mature and are difficult to positively identify to species from images only. The caterpillar in image “C” looks very similar to Haploa confusa in Wagner’s “Caterpillars of Eastern North America”, p 461. But again, positive identification to species was not possible, according to BugGuide. The volunteer experts at BugGuide helped us with the identification, but settled on identification down to genus only.
The abundance of this species is yet unknown. But another Haploa moth, the Leconte’s Haploa – check out this species under the tiger moths – is common in our two nature centers, and easily spotted. This caterpillar was photographed along the boardwalk at Fontenelle Forest in late September.
The foodplants are elm, hackberry, hops and nettles. The caterpillars feed without making a shelter.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page is: Roland Barth.