8-20-13 Arctiid moth caterpillars, Kake, Alaska, USA
Observation: My nephew texted me that one of the trees in his yard was full of caterpillars. We found out via the internet that they are spotted Tussock Moths. They are not indigenous to this area. They like the trees with smaller leaves such as alder and willow. Edna Jackson, LEO
Alaska Lepidoptera Club Consult: Ken Philip writes, "One more species ID for moth photos.The two photos from Kake, 20 August 2013 are caterpillars of the Arctiid moth Lophocampa maculata (Spotted Tussock Moth). It has been found elsewhere in SE Alaska, and I doubt that it is a sign of recent climate change. Kake is a new locality record, however, so that should be added to the 2013 Annual Summary."
Resource:
Observations From Members 