Black and yellow caterpillars are known to be the ones that feed on butterflies and moths. Some of them have a hairy body and come in different sizes. Depending on the species of moth or butterfly, the caterpillar may display black and yellow stripes or patterns. Other caterpillars may have fuzzy yellow bodies with black spines or horns.
Despite their different appearances, all black and yellow caterpillars eventually transform into beautiful flying butterflies. Interestingly, the caterpillars that turn into butterflies and moths do not resemble the black and yellow caterpillars they once were. For instance, the striking orange and black monarch butterfly emerges from a black and yellow striped caterpillar. Similarly, the brown mottled tiger moth comes from a black and yellow spotted tussock caterpillar.
This article aims to assist readers in identifying the various types of black and yellow caterpillars. Additionally, it provides descriptions and illustrations of yellow and black caterpillars to aid in identifying the species of moth or butterfly that emerges after metamorphosis.
Are Black and Yellow Caterpillars Poisonous?
Most black and yellow caterpillars are harmless to humans and won’t sting you if you come into contact with them. However, there are exceptions. The yellow and black hairy spotted tussock caterpillar, also known as Lophocampa maculata, has barbed spines that can cause skin irritations. The monarch caterpillar, or Danaus plexippus, and the Cinnabar moth caterpillar, or Tyria jacobaeae, produce poisons that can be harmful to small birds or rodents.
Some types of black and yellow caterpillars may look intimidating, with their horns, eye-like patterns, fuzzy bodies, and bright yellow coloration. These features are intended to deter potential predators from attacking them, either from the head or tail end. However, it’s important to note that black and yellow caterpillars are generally not poisonous. Still, it’s best to avoid handling any caterpillar that has spines or tufts of tiny hairs.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
Black and yellow caterpillars can be identified based on their distinct coloration, patterns, number of legs, presence of prolegs, hair or spines, and size. The plant the caterpillar is feeding on can also provide clues to the species of the caterpillar. Length measurements can also aid in identification. It’s important to note that caterpillars undergo several stages of growth, or instars, so adult caterpillars may appear different from those that have recently hatched from their pupa.
This article focuses on the distinguishing features of adult caterpillars that feed on leaves and belong to the insect order Lepidoptera. These caterpillars can range in length from 1 inch to 5.5 cm (14 cm) and display yellow and black stripes and horns.
Types of Black and Yellow Caterpillars (With Pictures)
Let’s examine the various forms of yellow and black striped, fuzzy, hairy, and smooth caterpillars in further depth.
Monarch caterpillar (Danaus plexippus)
The monarch caterpillar can be identified by its distinctive striped pattern of black, yellow, and white bands that run along its body, along with two black tentacles at each end. This pattern sets it apart from other caterpillar species.
The black and yellow monarch caterpillar typically reaches a length of 1.7 inches (4.5 cm) as it feeds on milkweed plants. Interestingly, the diet of monarch butterflies makes them one of the few black and yellow butterfly species that are poisonous.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The black, yellow, and white stripes on monarch caterpillars are easily distinguished. Milkweed leaves are the source of food for monarch caterpillars.
White-Marked Tussock Furry Horned Caterpillar (Orgyia leucostigma)
The white-marked tussock is a notable caterpillar that transforms into a large brown moth with distinct characteristics. This caterpillar is yellow and black in color, with a red head and yellowish hairs on its body, as well as long black spines protruding from its back. It is a unique and fuzzy caterpillar, measuring 1.3 inches (3.5 cm) in length.
However, it’s important to note that the white-marked tussock larva is a stinging caterpillar, with urticating hairs that may cause allergic reactions in humans upon contact. Therefore, it’s best to avoid handling this caterpillar species.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The stinging hairs on the white-marked tussock caterpillar’s tufts are yellowish-white, and the caterpillar has a black body with yellow stripes.
Yellow Spotted Tussock Moth Caterpillar (Lophocampa maculata)
The yellow-spotted tussock caterpillar stands out with its tufty, fuzzy appearance, featuring yellow and black hairs. Its body is marked with a large yellow band in the center, and black, hairy ends. Thin tufts of white hair can also be found between the ends of the hairs.
It’s important to exercise caution when handling this caterpillar, as the spines on its black and yellow body can cause stings, although they are not poisonous.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The yellow-spotted tussock caterpillar is easily recognizable due to its distinct features, including wide black and yellow fuzzy stripes and tufts of white hair. These caterpillars feed on a variety of leaves, including those from oak, willow, maple, and alder trees.
Six-Spot Burnet Caterpillar (Zygaena filipendulae)
The six-spot burnet caterpillar is a unique species characterized by its fat yellow body with black markings and small spikes. This caterpillar measures around 0.8 inches (2 cm) in length and is native to the United Kingdom. Upon close observation, tufts of spiky hair can be seen covering the caterpillar’s pale yellow and black sections.
As an adult, the six-spot burnet caterpillar transforms into a striking black moth during the day. The butterfly’s glossy black wings, adorned with six bright red dots, are the inspiration behind its name “six-spot” burnet.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
Look for horizontal lines of black patterns on a pale, almost translucent yellow body to help identify the six-spot burnet caterpillar.
Queen Caterpillar (Danaus gilippus)
The queen butterfly caterpillar is identifiable by its distinctive black stripes with yellow dots, white lines, and black tentacles. It is a large caterpillar with a black body featuring yellow dots. Its head is black with white rings, and it is closely related to the monarch caterpillar. While white stripes are typical, this caterpillar may also have stripes in yellow, blue, green, or brown.
Once the queen butterfly caterpillar emerges from its pupal stage, it transforms into a stunning red butterfly, adding to its appeal.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The six black fleshy tentacles, black body with white transverse bands, and two large yellow dots on each segment help to identify the queen caterpillar.
Catalpa Sphinx (Ceratomia catalpae)
The catalpa caterpillar’s appearance changes as it grows, with a shift from pale colors and little patterns to a shiny jet black with yellow borders down each side. Their yellow markings form a row on each side of the caterpillar and eventually join together as they become darker.
This black and yellow caterpillar is also known as the Catawba worm, with black dots adorning its sides. An adult catalpa caterpillar can reach up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length, with a black head and tapering tail end. These caterpillars can be found in states such as Texas, Florida, Maine, and Iowa, feeding on native catalpa trees or cigar trees.
After undergoing metamorphosis, large brown catalpa sphinx moths emerge from these yellow and black worm-like caterpillars, adding to their unique life cycle.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The black body with yellow and black markings along the sides of the catalpa caterpillar is a good way to identify it.
Giant Sphinx caterpillar (Pseudosphinx tetrio)
The Giant Sphinx caterpillar is identifiable by its unique crimson/orange head and tail, black horns, and orange prolegs. These features make it easy to distinguish from other caterpillar species. This type of caterpillar can grow to be over 6 inches (15 cm) in length, making it one of the larger species of caterpillars.
It’s important to note that the Giant Sphinx caterpillar is poisonous to small creatures and birds that may consume it. Additionally, when trapped, it may bite and has barbed, stinging hairs, which can cause discomfort to humans. Therefore, it’s best to avoid handling this yellow and black caterpillar species.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The enormous sphinx has an orange tail, head, and prolegs to help distinguish it from the giant sphinx, which has distinctive yellow bands on its jet-black body.
Black and Yellow Zebra caterpillar (Melanchra picta)
The zebra caterpillar is a distinct species identifiable by its reddish-brown head, which sets it apart from other caterpillars. It also features thin black stripes around its segments, creating a zebra-like pattern that is unique among caterpillar species. The underside of the zebra caterpillar is reddish-brown, and it measures 1.4 to 1.6 inches (3.5 to 4 cm) in length. Its black and yellow stripes further add to its striking appearance.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
Look for the wide cream-yellow stripes and thinner black stripes down the length of a medium-sized caterpillar to determine whether it’s a zebra caterpillar.
Common Sheep Moth Caterpillar (Hemileuca eglanterina)
The common sheep moth caterpillar has a distinctive and intimidating appearance, with a brownish-black body covered in tufts of black spiky, yellow or orange spines. These caterpillars feed on a variety of leaves, including those from bitter cherry, bitterbrush, wild roses, and mountain lilac.
As it matures, the common sheep moth caterpillar undergoes a stunning transformation into a beautiful orange or pink moth. The moth’s appearance is marked by its unique combination of black and yellow colors.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
To help identify this black caterpillar, look for whorls of yellowish or orange tufts on the back.
Yellow and Black Cinnabar Caterpillar (Tyria jacobaeae)
The cinnabar caterpillar is characterized by its yellow and black stripes and fine hairs on its body. Unlike some other caterpillar species, it does not have an abundance of thin hair-like black or white spines. The caterpillar’s bright yellow and black colors serve as a warning to predators, as it is poisonous.
These caterpillars can often be seen feeding on ragwort leaves, their preferred food source. After undergoing metamorphosis, the cinnabar caterpillar transforms into a striking black and red moth, adding to its unique life cycle.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The cinnabar caterpillar can be identified by looking for a jet-black and yellow striped caterpillar that grows up to 1.2″ (3 cm) long.
Brown-Hooded Owlet (Cucullia convexipennis)
The brown-hooded owlet caterpillar is a unique species of caterpillar featuring a black body adorned with yellow stripes and red dots. The caterpillar’s glossy black legs are marked with a horizontal red line running lengthwise. Its head is bright black with yellow patterns, and it is also known as the calico paint caterpillar. This caterpillar species is sure to catch your attention with its vibrant and distinct appearance.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The yellow and white stripes on the brown-hooded owlet caterpillar’s body form a wide horizontal stripe down the middle. The caterpillar is about 1 inch (2.5 cm) long and is black in color.
Black Swallowtail Caterpillar (Papilio polyxenes)
The black swallowtail caterpillar is a mature caterpillar with a distinctive appearance. Its green body is marked with black and yellow stripes and dots. The caterpillar’s segments are adorned with black bands featuring yellow dots. The prolegs, which are white or green with black and yellow patterns, are also noteworthy.
As these caterpillars mature, they develop the appearance of a butterfly larvae. When young, these caterpillars feed on black plants and feature a white band around their middle. The black swallowtail caterpillar’s unique markings and colors make it a fascinating species to observe during its growth and development stages.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The black bands and yellow dots on a bright green body are the identifying features of the black swallowtail caterpillar.
Yellownecked caterpillar (Datana ministra)
The yellownecked caterpillar is a distinctive species of caterpillar, featuring a black body adorned with yellow stripes running the length of its hairy body. The caterpillar also has white feathery spines, yellowish and black legs, and a black head that is noticeable. When threatened or alarmed, the yellownecked caterpillar folds its body into a distinctive “U” shape, providing further evidence of its unique behavior and characteristics.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The longitudinal yellow stripes on a black hairy body, as well as the distinctive yellow and black feet, may be used to identify a yellownecked caterpillar.
Mullein Moth Caterpillar (Cucullia verbasci)
The mullein moth caterpillar is a visually stunning species of caterpillar, characterized by its long, fat body adorned with yellow circles and black dots on a white or light green background. These caterpillars are easily identifiable as they can grow up to 2 inches (5 cm) in length and feed on Buddeia plant leaves, showcasing their brilliant colors.
During July and August, mullein moth caterpillars can cause damage to bushes if not controlled. Their distinct appearance and potential for damage make them a species of interest and concern for those who observe them in their natural habitat.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
Because of its black and yellow patterning on a white or pale grayish-green body, the yellow, black, and white Mullein moth caterpillar is unmistakable.
Grapeleaf Skeletonizer Caterpillar (Harrisina americana)
The grapeleaf skeletonizer is a species of caterpillar with yellow bands and lines of black dots on its body, which makes it easy to identify. However, it is important to handle these caterpillars with care as they have small irritating hairs that can cause discomfort.
When searching for grapevine leaves, it is worth investigating the underside of the leaves to check for any signs of leaf-munching insects. When feeding, grapeleaf skeletonizers often form a line and stand in a row. While covered in itchy hairs, the grapeleaf skeletonizer is not poisonous, making it a unique and fascinating species to observe in its natural habitat.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The bands of black dots on the black and yellow grapeleaf skeletonizer caterpillar differentiate it from others.
Redhumped Caterpillar (Schizura concinna)
The redhumped moth caterpillar is a distinctive species with a bright yellow body featuring black and white horizontal stripes and lines on its head. Its common name comes from the prominent red humps on its back, which add to its unique appearance.
Redhumped caterpillars are often found in clusters feeding on a variety of trees, including cottonwood, fruit trees, willow trees, and walnut trees. Their striking yellow and black coloration makes them easy to spot and observe in their natural habitat, adding to their appeal for those interested in the study of caterpillars.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The crimsonhumped caterpillar has yellow and black stripes, short black fleshy tentacles, a crimson head, and crimson humps that distinguish it.
American Dagger Caterpillar (Acronicta americana)
The American dagger caterpillar is a unique species that can be identified by its two sets of long, black hair-like spines on its back and one at its tail. The caterpillar has a pale yellow, hairy body with a glossy black head that is easily visible.
Dagger moth caterpillars can be found feeding on a variety of trees, including hickory, birch, maple, oak, and poplar. As they mature, the fuzzy yellow caterpillars transform into magnificent brown moths after emerging from their pupa.
While the American dagger caterpillar may not be as well-known as some other species, its distinct appearance and fascinating transformation into a beautiful moth make it a captivating subject for those interested in the study of caterpillars
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
Long, fine feathery hairs cover the body of the yellow American dagger moth caterpillar. After grasping it, it has a 2″ (5 cm) length and may cause skin irritation.
Smeared Dagger Moth Caterpillar (Acronicta oblinita)
The smeared dagger moth caterpillar is identified by its black body with white markings and a yellow wavy line on each side. It is covered with jaggy-looking tufts of white or reddish-brown spines that can sting if touched. This yellow and black caterpillar is a pest that feeds on fruit trees, shrubs, strawberry plants, willows, and oaks.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The smeared dagger moth caterpillar is identified by its bristly black body with white patterns on the back, and yellow longitudinal stripes.
Fall Webworm (Hyphantria cunea)
Fall webworms are known for their variety of colors and patterns. They can be small, yellow, hairy caterpillars with black dots and long spikes or large, orange, hairy caterpillars. Some have pale yellow bodies with black dots while others are dark gray or green with light markings. Each segment of the fall webworm caterpillar has a black dot and tufts of yellow or white bristles.
These yellow hairy caterpillars build tent-like structures similar to those built by tent caterpillars. They feed on the leaves of deciduous trees such as walnut, cherry, and crabapple.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
In late summer and fall, the presence of web nests hanging from the tips of branches of hardwood trees can easily identify the fall webworms. The caterpillars have yellow, hairy bodies with black dots and long yellow spines, and can grow up to 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) in length.
White Flannel Moth Caterpillar (Norape ovina)
The white flannel moth caterpillar can be identified by its black body adorned with pairs of bright yellow spots on each segment, and a yellow underside. It is a stinging caterpillar with poisonous spines that can cause severe skin irritation upon contact. The tufts of long, feathery spines on this black and yellow caterpillar make it look fluffy, but it is best to avoid touching it. The caterpillar transforms into a beautiful white moth covered in long, white hair after going through metamorphosis.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The white flannel moth caterpillar has a black body with pairs of bright yellow spots on each segment, and it also has yellow feet on its underside. Its tufts of spines are poisonous and can cause a severe sting, so it’s best to avoid contact with this black and yellow caterpillar. After transforming, the white flannel moth emerges, which is a spectacular white hairy moth.
Alder moth Caterpillar (Acronicta alni)
The alder moth caterpillar is a black and yellow caterpillar with yellow stripes on its back and black projections on either side. It has four black spines and two pairs of wavy antennae-like projections. The fully grown caterpillar can reach a length of 1.18″ to 1.37″ (30-35 mm).
These black and yellow striped caterpillars are commonly found feeding on the leaves of deciduous trees. The young larvae are black and white and resemble bird droppings, making them difficult to spot. As they grow, they develop yellow and black bands with club-tipped spines.
After pupation, the alder moth emerges from the cocoon. The moth has brown forewings and creamy mottled designs on the rear wings. It has a fuzzy appearance.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The glossy black cylindrical body of the peculiar black and yellow alder moth caterpillar has bright yellow stripes. The paddle-like spikes on the side of its segments are a distinguishing feature.
Amaryllis Borer Caterpillar (Brithys crini)
The amaryllis borer caterpillar can be recognized by its black body with yellow markings and reddish-brown head. The caterpillar has fine setae that cover its body, and it can grow up to 1.75 inches (40 mm) in length. This caterpillar is notorious for damaging amaryllis and lily plants by boring into the stems and leaves, creating large holes in the plant tissue. Birds and insects find this black and yellow caterpillar unpalatable due to its poisonous nature. The amaryllis borer caterpillar is also known as the lily borer, crinum borer, or Kew arches.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The black body and faint-yellow bands that go around the segments of the amaryllis borer caterpillar distinguish it. The caterpillar’s body is cigar-shaped and has little bristle spikes, as seen in photographs.
Scarlet Tiger Moth Caterpillar (Callimorpha dominula)
The scarlet tiger moth larva is a black caterpillar with yellow and white longitudinal stripes, adorned with tufts of black spines around each segment. This caterpillar reaches a length of about 1.57″ to 1.77″ (40-45 mm) and has a cylindrical body shape.
Feeding on a variety of plants, including stinging nettle and common comfrey, this black and yellow striped caterpillar is commonly found in gardens and meadows. After overwintering in the ground, the caterpillars emerge in early spring.
Upon reaching adulthood, the scarlet tiger moth caterpillar transforms into a striking black and red moth with yellow, red, and white dots on its forewings.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The black cylindrical body, yellow stripes, white markings, and tufts of black spiny spines distinguish the scarlet tiger moth caterpillar from other caterpillars.
Lily Borer Caterpillar (Diaphone eumela)
The lily borer caterpillar, with its black and light yellow striped body and orange head, is a common pest of lily and amaryllis plants. Red dots are present in each black band, and the rear end has a yellowish patch. These yellow and black striped caterpillars grow up to 1.57 inches (40 mm) long. The emerging larvae are pale yellow with black stripes.
As the caterpillar develops, it transforms into a speckled black and reddish orange appearance, which is characteristic of the amaryllis borer species. These caterpillars are related to the Lily Borer Caterpillars and can frequently be found on lily and amaryllis plants. The cigar-shaped larvae bore into plant tissue, causing tell-tale holes in the leaves and stems of the lily flowers.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The dark bands surrounding the yellow segments of the bright yellow and black lily borer caterpillar distinguish it.
Police Car Moth Caterpillar (Gnophaela vermiculata)
The black and spiky larva of the police car moth is easily recognizable due to its bright yellow markings on its back that are dotted with yellow dots. Clusters of spines grow on each segment of the caterpillar, much like other black and spiky caterpillars. The body of the black caterpillar is adorned with iridescent blue dots on top of grayish-black spines and yellow markings, while the reddish-brown head is round and distinctive. Immature larvae, however, are yellow rather than black.
After spinning its silken cocoon, the police car moth emerges as a striking black and white moth, hence its name. Another name for this caterpillar moth is the green lattice moth larva. This spiky black caterpillar is often seen feeding on nectar from herbaceous flowers.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
A glossy-jet black body with yellow and metallic blue dots, as well as a reddish head, identify the police car moth.
Cabbage White Caterpillar (Pieris brassicae)
The black and yellow caterpillar with fine white hairs is commonly known as the big cabbage white caterpillar. The appearance of this caterpillar changes as it progresses through different developmental stages. It is usually found in shades of yellow and black, with variations from pale to dark yellow before turning grayish-green and black before pupation.
These caterpillars can grow up to 1.57 inches (40 mm) long and are often seen on cabbage and other Brassica plants, including Brussels sprouts, turnips, swedes, cauliflower, and kohlrabi. Large, plump caterpillars can cause significant damage to crops, making them a pest of concern for farmers.
The big cabbage white butterfly, also known as the cabbage butterfly or cabbage white, is the species responsible for producing these black and yellow caterpillars. The butterfly has snow-white wings with brown tips, which sets it apart from other butterfly species.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The caterpillar of the cabbage white butterfly is a yellow fuzzy creature that is covered in black dots, white hairs, and black tubercles.
Magpie Moth Caterpillar (Abraxas grossulariata)
The magpie moth larva can be easily identified by the orange stripes on its sides and at the base of its abdomen. This caterpillar has a slug-like appearance with yellow, black, and orange colors and is sparsely covered in short black hairs. It grows up to 1.18″ (30 mm) long. When crawling over plant leaves and stems, it moves in a looping motion, which is a unique characteristic. The magpie moth caterpillar feeds on hawthorn, blackthorn, gooseberry, and Japanese spindle leaves.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The creamy-yellow body of the magpie moth caterpillar is dotted with black spots, while a lateral orange band can be seen running along the base of its abdomen.
White-Lined Sphinx Moth Caterpillar (Hyles lineata)
The white-lined sphinx moth caterpillar is a large yellow caterpillar with black stripes running lengthwise along its body. The sides of the caterpillar are covered with triangular black markings and brownish dots. These caterpillars can reach up to 3.5 inches (88 mm) in length. Identifying this species can be challenging due to the different color variations it exhibits. Depending on the climate, these slender cylindrical larvae can be dark green with black and white dots or lime green with a black or orange spike tail. Yellow and black-striped caterpillars of this species can be found in gardens and deserts throughout North America. They feed on a wide variety of plant species, including fuchsia, tomato, apple, elm, evening primrose, and grapes.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The caterpillar of the white-lined sphinx moth has a worm-like body with black lateral stripes and brownish-black patterns down its back and sides. It is light green-yellowish in hue.
Grass Eggar Moth Caterpillar (Lasiocampa trifolii)
The grass eggar moth larva is a hairy black caterpillar with fine yellowish-orange hairs. Its long black body is covered in hairy skin and its rounded head features faint orange patterns. Depending on the species, the caterpillar may appear orange and black. When fully grown, the grass eggar caterpillar can reach a length of 2.55 inches (65 mm).
These yellow and black fuzzy caterpillars emerge from their eggs in late March or early April and feed on a variety of blossoming grasses, shrubs, and deciduous trees. The adult caterpillars may also be found on peas, beans, and other Fabaceae plants. After pupating, the black and yellow hairy caterpillar transforms into a charming fuzzy brown moth. The russet-brown moths are active at night during August and September.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The grass eggar moth caterpillar is a cylindrical and black-bodied larva with yellowish-orange hairs. Some species of this caterpillar have an orange lateral stripe on their backs, which makes them look grayish-white.
Buff-Tip Moth Caterpillar (Phalera bucephala)
The buff-tip moth larva is a large, cylindrical-shaped black caterpillar with yellow stripes and orange patches running lengthwise down each segment, covered in fine hairs. The black and yellow striped caterpillar has tufts of pale setae and a unique ‘V’ marking on its black globular head, making it easy to identify.
The buff-tip moth caterpillar grows up to 2″ to 3″ (50 – 75 mm) long and has a slender tube-shaped body with a trellised pattern in yellow, orange, and black. It is commonly found on several deciduous tree species, such as oak, beech, willow, and hazel.
It’s important to note that the caterpillars have prickly spurs, which are yellow and black, and gloves should be used when removing them from trees and bushes.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The distinctive features of the buff-tip moth caterpillar include its large, black, and round head with a noticeable “V” marking and its heavy, slug-like body covered in fine hairs. These characteristics make it easy to distinguish from other types of caterpillars.
Toadflax Moth Caterpillar (Calophasia lunula)
The toadflax moth larva has a distinct black and light gray patterned body adorned with white lines and dots. As the caterpillar matures, it becomes a plump worm-like insect with black, pale green, and yellow patterns. The caterpillar grows from a small dark gray larva that is 0.19″ (5 mm) long to a large black and yellow worm-like bug that is 1.57″ (40 mm) long. These caterpillars are known for their voracious appetite and can completely defoliate toadflax plants. Despite changes in their patterns throughout their growth stages, toadflax moth caterpillars are relatively easy to identify due to their blue-gray body with black and yellow stripes.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The toadflax moth caterpillar has a cylindrical body that appears bluish-gray due to the combination of yellow stripes and jet-black patterns on it.
Virginia Ctenucha (Ctenucha virginica)
The little Virginia ctenucha moth larva has a dark red head covered in black, white, and yellow fuzz. It may have clumps of yellow hairs on its body and a white band along its sides during certain stages. The caterpillar has red prolegs and a deep crimson head, and is covered in black and yellow hairy tufts. It is typically 0.78″ to 1″ (20–25 mm) long and can be found on various plant types such as sedges, irises, and ornamental grasses. Once the caterpillar has gone through its larval stage, it transforms into a black moth with a stunning metallic blue-green body, bright orange head, and feathery antennae.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
A short caterpillar with black, white, and yellow hair tufts, the Virginia ctenucha moth caterpillar is a little caterpillar.
Neighbor Moth Caterpillar (Haploa contigua)
The neighbor moth caterpillar has a black body with a vibrant yellow stripe on each side and white lines running down its back. The insect’s body is covered with tufts of black hair and fleshy spines, sparsely scattered in black. The slender and slug-like caterpillar can grow up to 0.51 inches (13 mm) in length. This caterpillar is commonly found across the United States and feeds on native deciduous trees such as oak and hazelnut. After pupating, the black and yellow neighbor moth caterpillar transforms into a cream-colored moth with dark brown patterns on its wings, making it a stunning sight to behold.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The neighbor moth larva displays a distinctive appearance with black-colored body and white stripes down its back, complemented by bright yellow bands on each side of its body.
Erasmia pulchella
The Erasmia pulchella caterpillar can be easily identified by its spiky segments and red dots on the sides. The caterpillar is covered in white spiky hairs and has fleshy tubercles on each black segment. This unique caterpillar is poisonous to any animal or bird that tries to eat it. Once it transforms into a moth, the Erasmia pulchella becomes a beautiful creature with multi-colored wings that feature black, red, yellow, and blue hues.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The Erasmia pulchella caterpillar is distinguishable by the bright yellow patch on its back and the red marks along its sides, against its glossy black body.
Red Admiral Butterfly Caterpillar (Vanessa atalanta)
The larva of the red admiral butterfly is a spiky black caterpillar with white dots and yellow patches on the sides. The caterpillar has white speckles covering its body, as well as short wispy spines, and is primarily black in color. The black caterpillar grows to be 1″ (25 mm) long when mature, with yellow abdominal markings.
Only emerges to feed, this native black caterpillar creates a tent where it lives. In stinging nettle plants, you may frequently find yellow-spotted black larvae. The caterpillar may be green to brown and black in color depending on its growth stage.
Black and Yellow Caterpillar Identification
The red admiral butterfly larva is easily recognizable by its black body, which is covered in sharp spines, and white dots and yellow patches on the sides. The spikes are short and wispy, and the caterpillar is mostly black in color with white speckles. When mature, it reaches a length of about 1 inch (25 mm) and has yellow markings on its abdomen. The caterpillar constructs a tent where it resides and feeds only when it emerges. It can commonly be found in stinging nettle plants and its color may vary from green to brown and black during different stages of growth.