it’s caterpillar time – watercolor

Destruction? Or beauty?

I go with beauty. For now, anyway, there’s no cause for concern.

My oregano plant came back this spring. That never happened up north. With the mild winter and my location being further south, it was a nice surprise. It came back with such vigor that already in May, it was bigger than it ever was, ever. So when I saw the damage this gorgeous white-marked tussock moth caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma) was making, I said, “Carry on.”

I am constantly impressed by how the attributes of a caterpillar are nothing like its characteristics after transformation. It looks alien compared to what it will be. This only adds to the charm and mystery.

White-Marked Tussock Moth
Photo by: Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren’s Photostream. Used under the Creative Commons License.

I found this handsome, smeared dagger moth caterpillar (Acronicta oblinita), on a sapling weed. It too will look nothing like this after transformation.

Smeared Dagger Moth
Photo by: Jacy Lucier. Used under the Creative Commons License.

In the shade, you cannot appreciate the striking red markings. It pops in sunlight.

Both caterpillars, while stunning, can cause skin irritation. It’s always a good idea to wear gloves while gardening…advice I need to heed myself.

May you find lovely little treasures in your backyard too!
Christine