Page 303 - The Book of Caterpillars: A Life-Size Guide to Six Hundred Species From Around the World

MOTH CATERPILLARS

FAMILY Limacodidae
DISTRIBUTION Eastern United States, from Maine to Florida, and west to
Texas and Missouri
HABITAT Woodlands, parks, and gardens
HOST PLANTS Woody trees, such as oak (Quercus spp.), ash (Fraxinus spp.),
apple (Malus spp.), beech (Fagus spp.), and cherry (Prunus spp.)
NOTE Covert, stinging caterpillar that is rarely seen
CONSERVATION STATUS Not evaluated, but not considered threatened

ADULT WINGSPAN
¾–1¼ in (19–31 mm)
CATERPILLAR LENGTH
¾ in (20 mm)
EUCLEA DELPHINII
SPINY OAK-SLUG 301

(BOISDUVAL, 1832)

Spiny Oak-slug caterpillars hatch from single eggs or small
clusters, laid on the underside of leaves. Like most slug
caterpillars, they prefer to feed and rest beneath older leaves,
usually around the leaf edges. During the heat of the day, they
can sometimes be found hiding between two leaves. The larvae
are present throughout the summer and early fall, but the peak Actual size
for mature caterpillars is from late August through September.
Prepupal caterpillars overwinter within a cocoon of brown silk.
A single generation of larvae is typical throughout most of the
species’ range, with multiple broods more likely in southern
areas. Adult moths fly from May to August, or later in the
northern fringe.

Eclea delphinii ranks among the more festive and charismatic of
the Limacodidae species encountered within its range. Its unique
design is unmistakable, although the coloration of individuals
can be highly variable. Numerous spines across the caterpillar’s
body are poisonous to the touch. Even though the sting is
considered mild in comparison with that of the Saddleback
(Acharia stimulea) and other slug species, cases of severe allergic
reaction have been reported.

The Spiny Oak-slug caterpillar has a mottled
and variable base color, usually green, pink,
red, or tan, although green is the most common
form. Two dorsal stripes spanning the length
of the body can also vary in coloration and can
include four or more red, rectangular spots.
Extended lobes of stinging spines encompass
the entire body.