If you notice yellow caterpillars in your garden, you might think they're common and harmless – but that's not always the case. Caterpillars are often camouflaged and hard to tell apart. If any of these pests threaten your plants, find out how to identify and get rid of them below.
There are many types of yellow caterpillars, so how do you know which one you're looking at? Sometimes it's tough to tell the difference between species, such as the monarch and viceroy caterpillars, without consulting an expert. Luckily there are some ways to identify yellow caterpillars on your own.
By learning to identify yellow caterpillars, you'll be able to keep your trees and shrubs safe from these destructive pests. Caterpillars are the larvae stage of butterflies and moths; they eat leaves, sometimes to the point where whole plants are destroyed, and sometimes entirely defoliate trees and shrubs. So without further ado, here are some tips on identifying yellow caterpillars, with an identification guide and pictures of the most common types of yellow caterpillars.
Scientifically, what are Caterpillars?
Caterpillars are the larval stage members of Lepidoptera (the insect order that also includes butterflies and moths). Because they are voracious eaters, caterpillars can do much damage to crops and gardens. Many people consider them pests, but some caterpillars are pretty beautiful. Some caterpillar species even have iridescent colors or patterns that make them look like miniature snakes.
Caterpillars go through several stages of growth, shedding their skin multiple times as they get bigger. When ready to transform into adults, they build a cocoon around themselves and enter the pupal stage. After a few weeks, they emerge as fully-grown butterflies or moths.
The Four Stages Of The Caterpillar
The four stages of the caterpillar are the egg, larva, pupa, and adult butterfly. The caterpillar undergoes incredible changes, metamorphosing from a tiny egg into a beautiful butterfly. This process takes anywhere from two weeks to six months, depending on species. First, the egg hatches, and then the caterpillar emerges. It will then spend the next few weeks eating leaves and growing larger.
Once it has reached its full size, the caterpillar will spin a cocoon around itself and enter the pupal stage. Inside the cocoon, its body will break down and reform into that of a butterfly. After a few days or weeks, the butterfly will emerge from the cocoon, ready to begin its adult life.
Here are brief overviews of the four stages of the caterpillar:
Egg
The egg is the first stage in the life cycle of a caterpillar. Once the egg is laid, it hatches into a larva, the later enters the pupal stage. The pupa eventually emerges as an adult butterfly or moth. The egg stage can last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the caterpillar species.
The egg is highly vulnerable to predators and environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations. As a result, many eggs never hatch. However, those that do hatch give rise to the next generation of these fascinating creatures.
Larva
The larva stage is the second stage of a caterpillar's life cycle. This is when the caterpillar hatches from its egg and begins to eat. Caterpillars spend most of their time eating leaves, fruits, and other plant materials during this stage. Depending on the species, a caterpillar may molt, or shed its skin, several times during this stage.
The final molt will occur just before the caterpillar enters the pupa stage. The caterpillar will often spin a silk cocoon around itself during this final molt. The cocoon will protect the caterpillar as it undergoes metamorphosis and transforms into a butterfly or moth.
Pupa
After the caterpillar has finished molting for the final time, it will enter the pupa stage. The caterpillar's body will completely transform during this stage, emerging as a butterfly or moth. The pupa is often protected by a cocoon or chrysalis, within which the caterpillar's body will be broken down and rebuilt into that of an adult insect.
This process can take a few days to several weeks, depending on the species. Once the transformation is complete, the butterfly or moth will emerge from its cocoon, ready to begin the next phase of its life.
The Adult Butterfly
Inside the pupal case, the caterpillar's body will break down and reorganize itself into that of an adult butterfly. When the change is done, the butterfly will come out of its pupal case, ready to mate and start the cycle again.
Is That a Caterpillar or a Worm? How to Tell the Difference and Why It Matters
Although they may look similar at first glance, caterpillars and worms are pretty different. For one thing, caterpillars have six true legs, while worms have none. Caterpillars also have a pair of fleshy, antenna-like appendages called "crochets" to hold on to their silk cocoons. In contrast, worms have a Broad Pharyngeal Gland (BPG), which helps them breathe through their skin. Caterpillars are voracious eaters and will munch on just about anything, including leaves, flowers, and even other insects.
In contrast, worms are more selective eaters and prefer a diet of dead and decaying plant matter. Finally, caterpillars undergo a dramatic transformation when they turn into butterflies or moths, while worms simply grow larger as they mature. So the next time you see a long, slimy creature wriggling around in your garden, take a closer look-it might be a caterpillar in disguise.
How to Identify Adult Moths from Their Appearance
Moths come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. However, some common physical characteristics can help you identify an adult moth. Most moths have two pairs of wings that are covered in tiny scales. The front wings are larger than the back wings and often have bright colors or patterns. The rear wings are usually smaller and darker in color. Moths also have long, narrow bodies with long antennae.
When identifying moths, it is essential to note that some types of moths may be mistaken for butterflies. One way to tell the difference is to look at the antennae. Butterflies typically have broader, club-shaped antennae, while moths usually have thinner, feather-like antennae. With a bit of practice, you should be able to identify adult moths by their appearance quickly.
The Most Common Types of Yellow Caterpillars
Luckily, there are some common yellow caterpillars that you can quickly identify, thanks to the little hairs on their bodies. Many are non-toxic; these caterpillars help pollinate flowers in your garden. But keep an eye out for fuzzier caterpillars—they could be poisonous. Now we will show you how to identify these yellow caterpillar types.
The American Dagger Caterpillar (Acronicta americana)
This species is native to North America. These yellow caterpillars are also known as puss moths because they have a very puffy appearance when they are in their cocoon stage. The adult moth has a wingspan of 4 to 5 cm (1.5-2") and is dark brown or black, with a fuzzy yellow band running across the middle of the front wings. The caterpillars are often mistaken for inchworms due to their similar appearance.
However, American dagger moth caterpillars can reach up to 6 cm (2.5") in length and are covered in small, sharp spines. These spines can irritate if they come into contact with human skin. Most of the time, the American dagger caterpillar lives in wooded areas, where it eats the leaves of trees that lose their leaves in the fall.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: American Dagger Caterpillar (Acronicta americana)
American daggers are smooth-bodied yellow caterpillars with tiny black dots on their sides. They have hair on their bodies and short, sharp spines that can irritate human skin if touched.
Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)
Cloudless sulphur is a yellow caterpillar found in the southern United States. The caterpillar is yellow with black spots and has a yellow head. The cloudless sulphur grows about 5 cm (2") long. It lives in open areas such as fields, pastures, and gardens. The
The cloudless sulphur caterpillar feeds on the leaves of various plants, including soybeans, alfalfa, clover, and cabbage. When fully grown, the cloudless sulphur caterpillar pupates into a yellow and black butterfly. The butterfly has a wingspan of 5 to 7.5 cm (2 to 3"). It is active during the day and can often fly around flowers.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Cloudless Sulphur (Phoebis sennae)
The cloudless sulphur caterpillar is yellow with black spots. It has a yellow head. The body of cloudless sulphur is smooth but has no hairs. There are small black dots on its body.
Giant Peacock Moth Caterpillar (Saturnia pyri)
This yellow caterpillar originates from Europe. It has a brown head and blue spots on its body. It grows to be about 12 cm (5") long and 2.5 cm (1") in diameter. The caterpillar's diet consists of leaves, flowers, and fruit. It is active during the day and rests at night. When it is time to pupate, the caterpillar spins a cocoon, which it metamorphoses into an adult moth. The adult moth has a wingspan of around 15-20 cm (6-8").
Its body is brown with yellow-black spots, and its wings are brown with a white border. The Giant Peacock Moth is active at night and is attracted to light. Male moths use pheromones to attract mates. Females lay eggs on the underside of leaves, which hatch in about two weeks. The caterpillars go through six instars before pupating. They are considered to be pests by some because of their voracious appetites. However, they are not harmful to humans or other animals.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Giant Peacock Moth Caterpillar (Saturnia pyri)
These caterpillars are smooth-bodied yellow caterpillars with tiny blue dots on their backs. They have small hairs around their legs.
Pale Tussock (Calliteara pudibunda)
The pale tussock caterpillar is native to Asia and Europe. It is one of the largest members of the Noctuidae family, with a length of up to 4-4.5 cm (1.5-1.75"). The caterpillars are covered in white hair and have tufts on their backs. They feed on various plants, including brassicas, nettles, and willowherbs. When they are ready to pupate, they spin a cocoon in which they remain for around two weeks before emerging as adults.
The adult moths are nocturnal and have a wingspan of up to 4-6 cm (1.5-2.5"). They are brown, with white spots on their wings. The pale tussock caterpillar is considered a pest in some parts of the world, as it can strip plants of their leaves. In Europe, it is controlled by several predators, including wasps, birds, and spiders.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Pale Tussock (Calliteara pudibunda)
The caterpillar can be identified by its hairy, pale yellow body, with white tufts of hair on its back. It has black dots across its body but lacks other markings or patterns.
Six-Spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae)
This yellow caterpillar is native to Europe. It is named for the six black spots on its back, which warn predators of its toxicity. The caterpillar grows to approximately 2.5 cm (1") and is covered in sparse yellow hairs. It feeds on the leaves of various plants, including thistles, clovers, and daisies.
When fully grown, the caterpillar pupates inside a silk cocoon. After about two weeks, the adult moth emerges. The adult moth has a wingspan of 4 cm (1.6"), is predominantly black with six red spots, and occasionally has fire orange shading on each wing.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Six-Spot Burnet (Zygaena filipendulae)
Look for black dots on its back to quickly identify this yellow caterpillar. It is covered in sparse yellow hair and has a smooth body.
Sycamore Moth (Acronicta aceris)
Hairy, yellow and orange bristles cover the small body of the sycamore moth caterpillar, which is most commonly found in European and Middle Eastern countries. Sycamore caterpillars have tufts of orange-yellow hairs along the length of their bodies.
In some instances, a white line may be used to connect the dots. Yellow or orange caterpillars with black heads have lengthy hair. Using the scientific names, you can tell that the sycamore moth and the sycamore tussock moth are distinct species. Sycamore moths belong to the Noctuidae moth family, whereas tussocks belong to the Erebidae moth family. Sycamore moths with gray wings measuring 4 cm (1.5") across are born from these hairy caterpillars.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Sycamore Moth (Acronicta aceris)
Caterpillars of this species may easily be distinguished by their vivid markings. There are white spots in the center of its back and tufts of orange/yellow hair. Horse-chestnuts, maples, and mulberries are just a few of the trees where this pest may be found.
Sycamore Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Halysidota harrisii)
The sycamore tussock caterpillar is a light yellow fuzzy caterpillar with orange and white spiky hairs belonging to the tiger moth family. As the name implies, yellow tussock caterpillars like to consume sycamore trees' leaves. The tiny caterpillars only reach a length of around 3 cm (1"). Watch for two long orange pencil hairs on one end and two white pencil hairs on the other to aid caterpillar identification. Its body is similarly coated in pale yellow bristles.
Like other hairy caterpillars, their urticating setae may inflame the skin when touched. Exposure to caterpillars from the sycamore tree may cause allergic reactions in certain people. The yellow sycamore tussock caterpillar pupates into a blue-winged yellow moth. This moth has a 5cm (2") wingspan and a plump, short-hairy body.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Sycamore Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Halysidota harrisii)
The orange spikes on this yellow caterpillar's head distinguish it from other caterpillars. Small black spots and long pale-yellow bristles may be seen on the creature's sides and feet.
Tasar Silkworm Caterpillar (Antheraea mylitta)
The tasar silkworm caterpillar (Antheraea mylitta) is a yellow caterpillar native to India. It is usually around 3 cm (1") in length and has a yellow body with black spots and white dots running through its center. The caterpillar feeds on leaves and generally lives in trees or shrubs. When ready to pupate, it spins a cocoon out of silk.
The tasar silkworm caterpillar is commonly used to produce Tasar silk, a type of wild silk. The caterpillars are typically gathered from the wild and then raised in captivity until they are ready to spin their cocoons. After the cocoons are harvested, the silk is extracted and used to make fabrics.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Tasar Silkworm Caterpillar (Antheraea mylitta)
You can identify a tasar silkworm caterpillar by its appearance: it is yellow with black spots. The caterpillar will also have white dots running through its center, two along each side and three in a row down its back.
Yellow Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Lophocampa maculata)
The yellow-spotted tussock moth caterpillar (Lophocampa maculata) is a yellow and black caterpillar native to North America. It gets its name from the three black dots on its back, which are thought to resemble tussocks of grass. The yellow-spotted tussock moth caterpillar can reach up to 5 cm (2") in length and is covered in black and yellow hair.
When fully grown, it spins a cocoon and transforms into a deep brownish moth. The yellow-spotted tussock moth caterpillar is a voracious eater and will defoliate trees and shrubs. It is especially fond of oak, maple, and sycamore trees.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Yellow Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Lophocampa maculata)
The yellow-spotted tussock moth caterpillar is black with three yellow spots on its back. It has long hair spikes that are black at its base and yellow at its tips.
Yellow Woolly Bear (Spilosoma virginica)
The yellow woolly bear caterpillar (Spilosoma virginica) is often found in North America. The caterpillar is typically a mix of white and yellow to reddish-brown and can grow up to 5 cm (2") long. The yellow woolly bear caterpillar is a slow-moving creature that feeds on various plants, including the leaves of trees and shrubs. This caterpillar also eats other insects, such as beetles and grubs.
When the yellow woolly bear caterpillar hibernates in the winter, it will often do so under rocks or logs. In the spring, the caterpillar will emerge from its winter home and begin to spin a cocoon. After about two weeks, the yellow woolly bear caterpillar will emerge from the cocoon as a yellow moth. Although the yellow woolly bear caterpillar is not considered a harmful pest, some people may find them to be bothersome insects.
Yellow Caterpillar Identification: Yellow Woolly Bear (Spilosoma virginica)
The yellow woolly bear caterpillar is a fluffy, smooth-bodied, hairy insect with pencil hairs.
Yellow Caterpillars Begone: Tips on How to Get Rid of Them
Spring is usually high time to deal with yellow caterpillars, which may or may not be munching on your favorite plants - It can be unnerving when yellow caterpillars appear on your trees and shrubs.
Don't worry – there are many ways to deal with these pesky creatures (which aren't always pests) and keep them off your property so they can't cause any damage or harm to your prized flowers, shrubs, and plants. Here are six tips on how to get rid of yellow caterpillars and keep them away in the future.
It's much easier to deal with them now than it will be later when the population has increased exponentially.
Smother the Creeps
The first thing you should do when you see caterpillars in your home is to remove them. You can do so by picking them up with a paper towel, dropping them outside, or covering their path and flushing them out with water.
You can also buy products that trap caterpillars using glue (similar to flypaper). If none of these methods work, call an exterminator. And as always, wash your hands after handling caterpillars; they can carry diseases and spread germs very easily through their droppings.
Vacuum Up Any Caterpillars You See
If you spot a few, do not panic. Grab your trusty vacuum cleaner and clean up any stray caterpillars. Removing them immediately is best because they will likely move elsewhere in search of a new food source.
One or two might be easy enough to scoop up with a dustpan or mop, but use caution as they can easily hide in tiny crevices, leaving their bright yellow color behind to taunt you from their new hiding place. It is critical to remove them before they enter your walls; otherwise, you may have more problems than just an unsightly sight in your eyes.
Oranges and Lemons
Many people use citrus fruits as a repellent for pests. These little guys will avoid contact with your plants when exposed to citrus. Just cut an orange in half and leave it out overnight. Oranges have a more potent smell than lemons, and are far less expensive than lemons, so they're often a better value overall. Plus, they don't need any exceptional prep work: just leave them out overnight and make sure no one takes a bite before morning. If that doesn't work, try drowning them with dish soap or boiling water (but be careful not to burn yourself).
Spray Away
Yellow caterpillars can often be easily removed by spraying them with insect repellent. If they're eating leaves, you can use a spray targeted toward caterpillar insects that will kill them but won't damage other plant life.
You may also want to consult your local home improvement store about non-chemical solutions for killing these pests.
Use Flour to Get Rid of Yellow Caterpillars
Place a bag filled with flour around your plants. The caterpillars don't like their feet tangled in it, so they will move away from it. Plus, it can work as a poison if consumed or if enough contact is made with them.
Diatomaceous Earth (DE)
DE is a naturally occurring powder that absorbs oils and toxins from insects and their eggs but won't harm mammals. Sprinkle it around your property, especially in areas where caterpillars tend to hide (cracks in walls, under decks). Make sure to wear a mask because DE can irritate your lungs if you breathe it in.
Note: You should also seal off any entry points for insects—that way, they can't get back inside after you dust them with DE. If they do come back inside, try using spinosad spray. They are safer than DE but contain insecticides, so make sure to use them as directed.
Yellow Caterpillars FAQs
Yellow caterpillars are a common sight in many gardens and yards. While they may be colorful and exciting to look at, yellow caterpillars can also be destructive to plants. If you have yellow caterpillars in your garden, here are a few FAQs that may help you understand them better.
Are There Any Special Dangers to Yellow Caterpillars?
In rare cases, anaphylactic shock can occur. It is also important to note that some yellow caterpillars are poisonous if eaten. Symptoms of poisoning can include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you suspect a yellow caterpillar has poisoned you or someone else, it is crucial to seek medical help immediately.
Are Yellow Caterpillars Poisonous?
Many yellow caterpillars are beneficial to gardens and crops as they help control pest populations. If you come across a yellow caterpillar, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid handling it - But unless you are allergic to caterpillars, you shouldn't have serious health problems if you touch one.
Is There a Way to Raise Yellow Caterpillars as Pets?
Once the caterpillar has pupated, it will no longer be active and will not make a good pet. Also, be sure to provide your yellow caterpillar with plenty of food and a clean environment. Taking good care of your yellow caterpillar will reward you by becoming a beautiful butterfly.
What Can I Do to Help the Caterpillar in My Backyard?
- First, yellow caterpillars are typically harmless to plants and will not cause significant damage. However, if you find that they are disrupting your plant life, you can remove them by hand or with a garden hose.
- Second, yellow caterpillars typically only eat leaves, so if you see them eating other parts of your plants, you can gently remove them and put them on a leaf.
- Finally, if yellow caterpillars are in large numbers, you may want to contact a professional for assistance.
What Plants Do the Yellow Caterpillars Eat?
While most yellow caterpillars are not considered major agricultural pests, they can cause significant damage to crops if their populations become too large. For instance, the yellow-necked caterpillar is known to cause widespread defoliation of oak trees. If you think you have a yellow caterpillar infestation on your hands, it's best to contact a professional for help.
Where Can You Find Yellow Caterpillars in Nature?
For example, the common yellow woolly bear caterpillar becomes the Isabella tiger moth, a significant predator of crop-damaging insects. Many yellow caterpillars are brightly colored to warn potential predators that they are poisonous or distasteful. The yellow coloration is often a warning sign that the caterpillar contains toxins that could make a predator sick.
Some yellow caterpillars also have black, brown, or white markings on their bodies. These markings help the caterpillar camouflage itself from predators. When fully grown, yellow caterpillars transform into moths or butterflies. The adult stage of some yellow-colored insects, such as the goldenrod soldier beetle, is yellowish-orange. Thus, not all yellow insects are caterpillars at every life cycle stage.
What’s Left to Say?
The basic categories of poisonous caterpillars in North America are, fortunately, relatively easy to identify, particularly if you compare them with similarly colored species. For example, a banded woolly bear looks like a striped wasp moth caterpillar. It's not all that different from a white-marked tussock moth caterpillar—another species that appear very similar at first glance but is not poisonous.
However, one must keep plenty of intricacies in mind when identifying and classifying poisonous moths based on their larval stage. For example, many species go through several different forms before emerging as adults; some remain larval for longer than others; some have black or brown larvae instead of brightly colored ones.
