Eastern Tent Caterpillar – Malacosoma americanum

[Marcepstein]

This is a composite of 4 images using a similar method like described recently (viewtopic.php?f=8&t=45615). There is still a little fuzziness around the edges. The 4 shots were handheld with a Canon 5D MII and ef 180mm macro lens.

[Ramos Kenneth D]

I used to see these caterpillars all the time but I rarely do anymore. At one time I would find them in the trees, falling into the water over some of my favorite trout streams and I would tye fishing flies to imitate them. They worked pretty well as I caught and released quite a few or number of trout using them. Good photo of an old acquaintance.

[MarkSturtevant]

I do see this species, but there are other species of caterpillars that are far more common. What can happen is that host trees might die off as a part of ecological succession.

[Sippyjug]

Job well done.