Spotted Tussock Moth
https://www.inaturalist.org/observations/182854652
While pedaling in the sunshine and soaking up the last rays of summer warmth in Juneau, I began to notice these fuzzy creatures, about 2 inches long, crossing the street. I swerved to avoid one, then another, and another. As we shared the bike lane, I feared squashing the furry pedestrians but grew curious as to their destination. Where were they crawling from and where were they heading? My initial research led me to the discovery of the Wool Bear Caterpillar which is characterized by a black fuzzy body with a brownish-redish-yellowish band around the center. These caterpillars go on to become the Isabella Tiger Moth and can be found in all of North America. The Wooly Bear, "is an active caterpillar and moves well"(Banded Woollybear Caterpillar). They sure do move well, that's for sure! However, fellow naturalists on iNaturalist suggested an alternate identification for the fuzzy folks I had found. The Spotted Tussock Moth caterpillars look very similar to the Wooly Bear but have long white hairs or tufts on their front and rear black segments. Though they look rather friendly, their small hairs can cause allergic reactions in some people mainly in the form of hives but can lead to anaphylaxis in those with extreme sensitivity (Nelson).
I didn't try my luck with petting the Spotted Tussock Moth, though. Watching them crawl around was enough for me. I was hoping to find the answer to the world's most pressing question: why did the Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar cross the road? However, my research did not provide an answer. I can only assume they were searching for food because these caterpillars feed on deciduous trees and shrubs. They must have had the same idea I had that day and were out enjoying the weather. Can't blame them!
“Banded Woollybear Caterpillar.” CaterpillarIdentification.Org - Database of North American Caterpillar
Insects, www.caterpillaridentification.org/information.php?primary_name=banded-woolly-bear-
caterpillar. Accessed 15 Sept. 2023.
Nelson, Dan. “Lophocampa Maculata (Spotted Tussock Moth).” 10,000 Things of the Pacific Northwest, 10
June 2021, 10000thingsofthepnw.com/2021/06/07/lophocampa-maculata-spotted-tussock-moth/.
Comments
Hi Jillian, I have grown up around these little caterpillars, but I am positively astounded at my ignorance in that I forgot that caterpillars always turn into either moths or butterflies. I never put it together that these caterpillars must transform into another creature, and I am very surprised to hear they turn into moths! I am also very surprised that I have probably been mistaking Spotted Tussock Moths for Wool Bears this entire time. I must admit, either way, these caterpillars have always given me the creeps. I am not a huge bug-lover, and although the bright yellow fur that these caterpillars display is quite fascinating, I usually try to avoid them whenever I can. I was always wondering what time of year they come out, and I'm grateful you shared that with me! I hope one day we can all figure out why they are trying to cross the road. Thanks for sharing!
I know exactly which caterpillars you are talking about, in both cases. Those sweet little furry black ones with the orange and red down the middle, Banded Woollybear Caterpillar, were a big part of my childhood. We caught so many of them while out camping and brought them home in jars as our pets. I wonder how many my mother found dead around the house. Probably a ton. A few years ago we had an epidemic of those tussock moth caterpillars, they were everywhere and being touched inadvertently by pets, adults, children… nearly everyone had a severe allergic reaction to them. It was broadcasted all over our local Facebook sounding board. Luckily my children and I somehow avoided them. Looking at your pictures I can clearly see the difference between them and the “nice” ones.
Oh, Jillian, please start a side gig writing stories. You had me at “pedaling in the sunshine” and you brought it home with the world’s pressing question! You painted a beautiful and fun picture of your observation.
I’m so glad you warned against touching these adorable little insects. I totally would have tried my hand at petting this furry little guy (or gal).
I am so enjoying iNaturalist and getting feedback from other amateur scientists and it sounds like you too, benefitted from the community. It’s heartening to know there are others in our communities who are interested in documenting flora and fauna and sharing knowledge.
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