Butterflies and Moths of North America

collecting and sharing data about Lepidoptera

  Sighting 1135891

Hickory Tussock Moth or Hickory Tiger Moth
Lophocampa caryae

Observation date: August 20, 2017
Submitted by: Schroomer
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Curious about this one. Bucking firewood and stopped for lunch. Found this little guy crawling down my overalls. 10 minutes later started having itching on the side of my neck. Within 15 minutes an area 9" in diameter was covered in red itchy welts. Assume it might have been his hairs. Curious for an ID. Thanks.
Status: Resident
Verified by: BarbSendelbach
Verified date: January 11, 2022
Coordinator notes: Although not poisonous, some people are sensitive and will get contact dermatitis from the hairs of caterpillars of that group and a few others.
Checklist region(s): United States, Maine, Penobscot County