Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 928740

Carolina sphinx
Manduca sexta

Observation date: September 09, 2013
Submitted by: junorris53
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: This is the same caterpillar submitted on 9/6/13. I have been observing it daily. Yesterday evening it did not have those white attachments. Has it been attacked? Are those eggs of another organism? Should or can I do something to help? It is still on the same plant and has nearly consumed all the leaves.
Status: Resident
Verified by: rogerdowner
Verified date: September 09, 2013
Coordinator notes: Caterpillar has been parasitized by a braconid wasp (probably <i>Cotesia congregata</i>) The "eggs" are in fact the wasp's cocoons.
Checklist region(s): United States, Virginia, Fairfax County