Tuesday, October 17, 2023

Cocooning for winter

 
Hickory tussock moth
Getting ready...

This  Lophocampa caryae (Hickory Tussock) moth is cocooning itself onto a board in preparation for overwintering.
 
 
Hickory tussock moth cocoons
...ready.

 
These three Hickory Tussock moths have cocooned themselves and are ready for the cold.  

 

3 comments:

  1. I don't recall ever seeing any 'brand new' cocoons, or one in the process. Great find(s)!

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  2. Can you protect those cocoons over the winter on a screen porch or such? They would be a tasty midwinter treat for some critter.

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    Replies
    1. I had flipped over some boards and saw the cocoons. After taking the photos, I put the boards back the way they were. I will assume that they will be safe under a couple of boards?

      What I found interesting was seeing the black and white hickory tussock caterpillar hairs on the cocoons - making it easy to id them.

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