Butterflies, Moths, Dragonflies & Damselflies of Dayton, Ohio

MOTH CATERPILLAR GROUP #5

This is the caterpillar of the Yellow-collared Scape Moth. The adult moths are abundant throughout our area in late summer and fall. I have seen several of the caterpillars feeding on spike-rush at Oakes Quarry in Fairborn. 

This is a Clear Dagger moth caterpillar. Note the yellow markings on the top of its head. I found this caterpillar waiting on my doorstep when I came home one day. A nice surprise!

This is a Hag Moth caterpillar, also known as a "Monkey Slug". These caterpillars wave their "arms" like an octopus when moving. This is a stinging caterpillar, so you want to avoid touching these guys. Photographed at Twin Creek MetroPark.