The beauty of this hairy caterpillar is quite astounding. Unfortunately, in this case beauty belies the true nature of this animal. This is a gypsy moth caterpillar, and these pests have been ravaging the white oaks in my yard for many years now. Eventually they may become just too much for the trees. Huge areas of trees have already died on Nantucket and the Vineyard, and I’m pessimistic about the changes of oaks everywhere over the long run. Ironically, others critters don’t care much for beauty – this caterpillar got picked off the branch by a catbird less than 5 minutes after taking the picture. Sweet justice!
gypsy moth caterpillar July 1 2011
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