Explanation of Names
Puss Caterpillar refers to cat-like form of caterpillar, perhaps. Asp refers to sting of caterpillar, is a local name used in Texas
(1).
Size
Wingspan 2.4-3.6 cm. Larvae to 30 mm.
Identification
Note orange thorax and base of forewings. Sexually dimorphic. Female (thread-like antennae) has weak markings, though is still yellowish:
Male (feathery antennae) has stronger markings:
Caterpillar is densely covered with gray to tan hairs, which form a rusty-red crest along the back. Unlike the similar M. crispata, it has a tail-like tuft of hairs that stick straight out from the rear end, extending for a length greater than two body segments
(1).
Range
Southeastern and south-central United States
Habitat
Deciduous forests and adjacent areas
Life Cycle
Larvae feed on a variety of deciduous trees
Remarks
Caution, caterpillars have painful sting.
Print References
Wagner, p. 55--photo of larva (two different instars), adult
(1)
Covell p. 412, plate 56 #12
(2)
Wagner, p. 90--description
(3)Internet References
Randy Emmitt--possibly Lagoa (Megalopybe) crispata?
Georgia Leps--shows male and female
