Western Tent Caterpillar
Malacosoma californica (caterpillar)
This larva lives on shrubs and deciduous trees in western North America, often sheltering in a silken tent on branches. It feeds on young leaves and moves between the tent and feeding sites as it grows through several molts. Its hairy body and shared silk shelter help protect it from weather and many small predators. A notable fact is that the tent can act like a warm refuge, letting the caterpillar raise its body temperature on cool days.
- Type
- Shell
- Conservation status
- NE
Growth chain
- Western Tent Caterpillar
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