West Virginia’s rugged mountains and diverse forests create perfect conditions for an incredible array of caterpillars in West Virginia, making the Mountain State one of the Northeast’s most biologically rich regions.
From the fuzzy Woolly Bears that predict winter weather in local folklore to the magnificent Hickory Horned Devil that can reach five inches in length, you’ll encounter fascinating larvae throughout your outdoor adventures.
Understanding caterpillar identification serves multiple purposes beyond satisfying curiosity. Some species, like the Io Moth caterpillar, pack venomous stings that require immediate medical attention, while others like the Monarch provide essential ecological services as future pollinators.
West Virginia hosts 128 documented butterfly species plus hundreds of moth varieties, each contributing to the state’s complex ecosystem web.
Whether you’re hiking the Appalachian Trail, gardening in Charleston, or exploring state parks with children, this comprehensive guide will help you safely identify the most common caterpillars you’ll encounter across West Virginia’s varied landscapes.
1. Hickory Tussock Moth Caterpillar
The Hickory Tussock Moth caterpillar (Lophocampa caryae) stands out with its distinctive white fuzzy body adorned with prominent black tufts along the back. These striking larvae specialize on hickory, walnut, and related trees throughout West Virginia’s hardwood forests.
You’ll most commonly encounter these caterpillars during late summer and early fall when they’re actively searching for pupation sites. The dense white hairs serve as their primary defense mechanism, breaking off when touched and potentially causing skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Important Note: Handle Hickory Tussock caterpillars with caution, as their urticating hairs can cause dermatitis and allergic reactions lasting several hours.
Hickory Tussock caterpillars feed gregariously when young, creating noticeable defoliation on hickory branches. As they mature, they become more dispersed across the tree canopy, making individual specimens easier to spot during casual observation.
The species overwinters as pupae in thin cocoons constructed from body hairs and silk, typically hidden under loose bark or buried in leaf litter beneath host trees.
2. Giant Leopard Moth Caterpillar
Giant Leopard Moth caterpillars, commonly called Woolly Worms (Hypercompe scribonia), display jet-black fuzzy bodies with distinctive red bands between their segments. These impressive caterpillars can reach three inches in length and demonstrate remarkable defensive behavior.
When threatened, Giant Leopard caterpillars curl into tight defensive balls and remain motionless, a behavior called thanatosis or “playing dead.” This strategy often convinces predators that the caterpillar is no longer viable prey.
The species accepts an enormous variety of host plants, from garden vegetables to wild broadleaf weeds. This adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse habitats throughout West Virginia, from suburban gardens to remote mountain meadows.
Pro Tip: Giant Leopard caterpillars remain active well into autumn, often continuing to feed until the first hard freezes arrive in West Virginia’s mountains.
Their excellent cold tolerance allows extended feeding seasons compared to most species, making late-season encounters common during October hiking expeditions.
3. White-lined Sphinx Caterpillar
White-lined Sphinx caterpillars (Hyles lineata) appear in two distinct color forms: bright green with yellow stripes or black with yellow markings. Both forms feature the characteristic horn-like tail spine typical of sphinx moth larvae.
These robust caterpillars feed on various plants including evening primrose, grape, tomato, and many garden species. During outbreak years, their feeding can occasionally cause noticeable damage to cultivated plants throughout West Virginia.
The caterpillars demonstrate remarkable wandering behavior as they search for suitable pupation sites, often appearing far from their original host plants. This tendency leads to frequent encounters on roads, sidewalks, and hiking trails.
Migration Marvel: White-lined Sphinx moths undertake impressive migrations, sometimes appearing in West Virginia in large numbers during favorable weather conditions.
Adults emerge as powerful flying moths capable of hovering flight patterns that earn them the nickname “hummingbird moths” for their resemblance to the tiny birds.
4. Monarch Caterpillar
Monarch caterpillars (Danaus plexippus) rank among West Virginia’s most recognizable larvae with their distinctive black, white, and yellow stripes plus prominent black tentacles. These iconic caterpillars feed exclusively on milkweed plants, making them relatively easy to locate.
The caterpillars accumulate potent toxins from their milkweed diet, rendering them unpalatable to most predators. Their bold warning coloration advertises this chemical defense to potential threats throughout the ecosystem.
West Virginia supports multiple generations of Monarchs annually, with the final generation undertaking an extraordinary migration to Mexico. Creating milkweed habitat directly supports this iconic species and their incredible 2,000-mile journey.
Conservation Concern: Monarch populations have declined dramatically due to habitat loss, making every milkweed plant in West Virginia valuable for species survival.
Finding Monarch caterpillars on milkweed offers excellent opportunities to observe their remarkable five-stage transformation from tiny larvae to magnificent butterflies.
5. Black Swallowtail Caterpillar
Black Swallowtail caterpillars (Papilio polyxenes) undergo dramatic transformations throughout their development. Early instars appear as tiny black caterpillars with white bands, eventually becoming large green larvae decorated with black stripes and orange spots.
These adaptable feeders target plants in the carrot family, including garden herbs like parsley, dill, and fennel. You might also discover them on wild Queen Anne’s lace growing along West Virginia’s roadsides and field edges.
Defensive Mechanism Table:
| Defense Type | Description | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Osmeterium | Bright orange, fork-shaped organ | Startles predators |
| False eyespots | Large spots on mature larvae | Mimics snake appearance |
| Camouflage | Bird dropping mimicry in young | Avoids detection |
Black Swallowtail larvae can extend their osmeterium when threatened, creating a startling orange display that often deters curious predators and humans alike.
6. Tiger Swallowtail Caterpillar
Tiger Swallowtail caterpillars demonstrate remarkable adaptability by feeding on various tree species throughout West Virginia’s forests. These impressive larvae develop prominent false eyespots that serve as effective predator deterrents.
Eastern Tiger Swallowtail caterpillars (Papilio glaucus) prefer cherry, tulip poplar, ash, and cottonwood trees. During daylight hours, they use silk to wrap themselves in leaves for protection, making daytime discovery challenging.
The eyespots create an illusion of a much larger, more threatening creature when the caterpillar inflates its thoracic segments. This defensive display often convinces birds and other predators to seek easier prey elsewhere.
Seasonal Behavior: Tiger Swallowtail caterpillars change from green to brown coloration before pupating, signaling their preparation for metamorphosis.
Before entering the pupal stage, mature caterpillars purge their digestive systems, leaving behind noticeable watery deposits that can help locate pupation sites in the forest.
7. Spicebush Swallowtail Caterpillar
Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillars (Papilio troilus) master the art of disguise throughout their development. Young larvae expertly mimic bird droppings with their mottled brown and white appearance, while mature caterpillars develop into smooth, green individuals with prominent yellow-ringed eyespots.
The caterpillars prefer white sassafras and spicebush plants, which contributed to their common name. They also accept bay laurel and other plants in the laurel family when preferred hosts aren’t available.
Individual caterpillars create protective leaf shelters by folding leaves and securing them with silk webbing. Inside these shelters, they feed safely and molt between developmental stages.
Thermal Regulation: Spicebush Swallowtails possess unique abilities to regulate body temperature using behavioral adaptations, allowing them to remain active at cooler temperatures compared to other swallowtail species in West Virginia.
This adaptation proves particularly valuable in West Virginia’s mountainous regions where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically throughout the day.
8. Pipevine Swallowtail Caterpillar
Pipevine Swallowtail caterpillars (Battus philenor) represent one of West Virginia’s most toxic species, accumulating dangerous alkaloids from their specialized host plants. These dark caterpillars feature rows of orange-red tubercles along their black bodies.
The species targets Dutchman’s pipe (Aristolochia) and related vines exclusively, though these native plants are becoming increasingly rare throughout West Virginia’s landscape. Conservation efforts focus on protecting existing pipevine populations.
Key Insight: Pipevine Swallowtails are considered uncommon in West Virginia due to limited host plant availability, making any sighting significant for local naturalists and conservation efforts.
The toxicity acquired during larval development persists through metamorphosis, making adult Pipevine Swallowtails equally unpalatable. Several other butterfly species have evolved to mimic their warning coloration patterns.
Young caterpillars feed communally, creating obvious feeding damage on their host vines before becoming more solitary as they approach maturity.
9. Painted Lady Caterpillar
Painted Lady caterpillars display remarkable color variation ranging from greenish-yellow to charcoal, with most individuals featuring light-colored spots scattered across their spiny bodies. These cosmopolitan feeders accept an extraordinarily wide range of host plants.
Painted Lady caterpillars (Vanessa cardui) commonly feed on thistles, mallows, legumes, and many garden plants throughout West Virginia. Their catholic dietary preferences allow them to thrive in diverse habitats from wild meadows to suburban landscapes.
Population numbers fluctuate dramatically from year to year, with some seasons producing massive migrations while others see very few individuals. This natural variation reflects their complex multi-generational migration patterns.
Individual caterpillars construct silk webbing shelters on their host plants, often incorporating plant debris for additional camouflage. These shelters provide protection during vulnerable molting periods and adverse weather.
Migration Pattern Analysis:
- Spring arrivals: March-April from southern regions
- Peak abundance: May-July during breeding season
- Fall departures: September-October toward wintering grounds
- Population cycles: Highly variable year-to-year
10. Red Admiral Caterpillar
Red Admiral caterpillars appear pinkish-gray to charcoal with distinctive white spots and hair-like spines covering their backs. These solitary feeders specialize exclusively on stinging nettle plants throughout West Virginia’s moist woodland areas.
Red Admiral caterpillars (Vanessa atalanta) construct elaborate silk shelters by folding nettle leaves and securing them with dense webbing. Inside these protective enclosures, they feed safely while avoiding predators and harsh weather conditions.
Look for Red Admiral butterflies near forest edges in moist habitats where nettles naturally establish. The adults demonstrate remarkable tameness around humans and frequently land on people during outdoor activities.
Ecological Benefits:
- Control nettle populations in natural areas
- Provide protein sources for birds and small mammals
- Support pollinator networks as adult butterflies
- Indicate healthy wetland and woodland edge habitats
Red Admirals function as migratory butterflies that move south during winter months and return north in late spring when food sources become abundant again.
11. Mourning Cloak Caterpillar
Mourning Cloak caterpillars (Nymphalis antiopa) congregate in large groups on willow, elm, and poplar trees, creating impressive feeding displays during peak summer months. These spiny, black caterpillars feature distinctive rows of red spots along their backs.
The gregarious feeding behavior serves multiple ecological purposes: overwhelming plant chemical defenses, providing safety through numbers, and enabling efficient processing of tough tree leaves. Groups can contain dozens of individuals working together.
Safety Warning: Mourning Cloak caterpillars possess urticating hairs that can cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals. Always wear gloves when handling or removing these caterpillars.
Unlike most butterflies that overwinter as pupae or eggs, Mourning Cloaks overwinter as adults, hiding in tree cavities and protected locations throughout West Virginia’s harsh mountain winters.
Adult Mourning Cloaks rank among North America’s longest-lived butterflies, potentially surviving nearly a full year from emergence to natural death.
12. Cabbage White Caterpillar
Cabbage White caterpillars, commonly called Imported Cabbageworms in West Virginia, display light green coloration with small yellow dots along their sides. These non-native species were introduced accidentally in cabbage shipments during the 1800s.
The caterpillars rank among West Virginia’s most destructive garden pests due to their voracious eating habits. They can easily skeletonize entire plants, consuming everything except the toughest stems and midveins of brassica crops.
Integrated Management Strategies:
- Regular monitoring during growing season
- Row covers during peak egg-laying periods
- Beneficial insect habitat establishment
- Crop rotation to disrupt life cycles
- Hand-picking when populations remain manageable
For home gardeners throughout West Virginia, preventing large infestations through physical barriers, diverse plantings, and encouraging natural enemies provides the most sustainable long-term control.
Cabbageworms readily attack cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, and related crops, making them a primary concern for vegetable producers across the state.
13. Woolly Bear Caterpillar
Woolly Bear caterpillars display characteristic black coloration with a wide rusty-red band around their middle, and their entire bodies are covered in dense, coarse hairs. These hardy caterpillars eventually transform into Isabella Tiger Moths.
The species functions as generalist feeders, accepting nearly any plant species they encounter during their wandering behavior. This remarkable adaptability allows them to thrive in diverse West Virginia habitats.
Folk Weather Prediction: While popular Appalachian folklore suggests Woolly Bear band patterns predict winter severity, scientific evidence doesn’t support this charming regional belief.
These caterpillars possess exceptional cold tolerance, surviving freezing temperatures by producing natural antifreeze compounds in their body fluids. They may require two years to complete development in West Virginia’s mountain climate.
Woolly Bears actively search for suitable pupation sites during late fall, often crossing roads and trails in their quest for protected overwintering locations.
14. Yellow Woolly Bear Caterpillar
Yellow Woolly Bear caterpillars (Spilosoma virginica) sport dense, pale yellow to cream-colored fuzzy coats that distinguish them from their more famous Isabella relatives. These adaptable feeders accept diverse plants throughout West Virginia.
The caterpillars remain active later into fall than most species, often continuing to feed until hard freezes arrive in the mountains. Their thick hair coating provides excellent insulation against variable autumn weather.
Common Mistake: Don’t confuse Yellow Woolly Bears with other fuzzy caterpillars—their uniform pale coloration and smaller size distinguish them from Isabella Woolly Bears.
Yellow Woolly Bears can produce two generations annually during favorable years, with the second generation overwintering as pupae buried in soil or leaf litter.
Adult Virginia Tiger Moths emerge as pure white, medium-sized moths that visit night-blooming flowers throughout West Virginia, serving as important nocturnal pollinators for native plants.
15. Eastern Tent Caterpillar
Eastern Tent caterpillars (Malacosoma americanum) construct distinctive silk tents in the crotches of cherry, apple, and related trees throughout West Virginia. These social caterpillars create communal shelters for protection during bad weather and nighttime hours.
The caterpillars emerge from their tents to feed on surrounding foliage, following silk trails laid down by scout individuals. This cooperative behavior enables efficient exploitation of food resources while maintaining group cohesion.
Important Health Warning: Eastern Tent caterpillars have been linked to mare reproductive loss syndrome in horses, causing miscarriages and stillbirths when pregnant mares accidentally ingest the caterpillars.
Tent caterpillar populations follow predictable natural cycles, with outbreak years followed by several years of low numbers as diseases, parasites, and predators reassert ecological control.
Management Timeline:
- Winter: Remove egg masses during dormant season pruning
- Early Spring: Destroy small tents when caterpillars are inside
- Late Spring: Apply biological controls if necessary
- Summer: Encourage natural predators and parasites
16. Forest Tent Caterpillar
Forest Tent caterpillars present distinctive blue bodies decorated with white keyhole-shaped spots along their backs. Despite their name, this species doesn’t actually build the tent structures associated with their Eastern Tent caterpillar relatives.
Forest Tent caterpillars (Malacosoma disstria) emerge in late spring when oak, maple, and cherry trees begin producing new foliage. They create silk mats on tree trunks and branches rather than enclosed protective tents.
Population Cycle Insight: Forest Tent caterpillars experience dramatic population fluctuations roughly every 10 years, making them highly visible during outbreak periods across West Virginia’s forests.
You’ll observe them traveling in impressive processions between feeding sites, often covering considerable distances to locate suitable pupation areas in the surrounding landscape.
During peak outbreak years, these caterpillars can cause significant defoliation, though healthy trees typically recover completely by producing new leaf growth later in the season.
17. Gypsy Moth Caterpillar (Spongy Moth)
The Gypsy Moth caterpillar, recently renamed Spongy Moth (Lymantria dispar), ranks among West Virginia’s most problematic invasive species. These hairy larvae display distinctive blue and red spots along their gray-brown bodies.
Young larvae prefer oak leaves but become increasingly less selective as they mature, eventually accepting over 300 different plant species. Most feeding occurs during nighttime hours when they climb trees to reach foliage.
Safety Alert: Spongy Moth caterpillars can cause severe allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to their irritating hairs. Avoid direct contact and wear protective clothing in infested areas.
Female moths deposit tan, fuzzy egg masses on various outdoor surfaces including tree trunks, vehicles, and camping equipment. These egg masses facilitate accidental transportation to new areas.
Early detection and removal of egg masses provides the most effective control method for preventing population establishment in previously uninfested West Virginia locations.
18. Luna Moth Caterpillar
Luna Moth caterpillars (Actias luna) transform West Virginia’s woodlands with their impressive size and striking lime-green coloration. These chunky larvae can reach four inches in length and feature small orange spots along their sides.
You’ll find Luna caterpillars feeding on walnut, hickory, sweetgum, and birch trees from June through August. Their feeding typically doesn’t cause significant damage to healthy trees due to relatively low population densities.
The species produces one generation annually in West Virginia’s climate, with adults emerging during late spring when temperatures consistently remain above freezing at night.
Metamorphosis Marvel: Luna caterpillars change from bright green to reddish-brown coloration as they prepare to pupate, spinning papery cocoons attached to host tree branches.
Luna caterpillars are considered beneficial since adult moths serve as important pollinators and provide essential food sources for bats and other nocturnal predators throughout the ecosystem.
19. Polyphemus Moth Caterpillar
Polyphemus Moth caterpillars appear in West Virginia during June and again from August through September, feeding on oak, hickory, elm, maple, and other deciduous trees. These impressive green larvae feature prominent red tubercles.
The caterpillars feed individually rather than in groups, typically causing minimal damage to healthy trees throughout West Virginia’s extensive forest systems. Their feeding creates small holes in leaves but rarely results in noticeable defoliation.
Host Plant Strategy: Planting oak trees provides one of the most effective methods for supporting insect biodiversity, with even small specimens supporting numerous Lepidoptera species.
Polyphemus caterpillars undergo five distinct instars before pupating, growing dramatically in size with each successive molt. Final instar caterpillars actively search for suitable pupation sites.
Adult Polyphemus Moths rank among North America’s largest native silk moths, with wingspans reaching six inches across and distinctive transparent eyespots on their wings.
20. Cecropia Moth Caterpillar
Cecropia Moth caterpillars (Hyalophora cecropia) represent West Virginia’s largest native caterpillar species, reaching lengths of four to five inches at full maturity. These spectacular larvae feature turquoise bodies decorated with coral-colored tubercles tipped in black.
The caterpillars feed on various deciduous trees including maple, cherry, apple, and lilac throughout West Virginia’s diverse landscapes. Young larvae prefer tender new growth while mature caterpillars can process tougher, older leaves.
Cecropia caterpillars change dramatically in appearance throughout their development, starting as black and spiny early instars before gradually developing their characteristic smooth texture and brilliant coloration.
Conservation Status: Cecropia Moths face population pressures from habitat loss, pesticide use, and light pollution that disrupts their nocturnal mating behaviors.
Adult Cecropia Moths emerge without functional mouthparts and survive only long enough to mate and reproduce, making the caterpillar stage crucial for accumulating sufficient energy reserves.
21. Io Moth Caterpillar
Io Moth caterpillars (Automeris io) pack a powerful defensive punch with their venomous spines that can inflict painful, long-lasting stings. These pale green caterpillars feature distinctive red and white stripes along their sides.
The caterpillars feed on diverse plants including corn, roses, willows, and many garden species throughout West Virginia. Despite their intimidating appearance, they rarely cause significant agricultural damage.
Critical Safety Warning: Io caterpillar stings can cause severe pain, swelling, and allergic reactions lasting several hours. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
Young Io caterpillars feed gregariously for protection, but older larvae become solitary as they approach pupation. The gregarious phase provides safety in numbers while reducing later competition.
Adult Io Moths display dramatic sexual dimorphism, with males showing bright yellow wings and females exhibiting subdued brown coloration for camouflage during vulnerable egg-laying activities.
22. Hickory Horned Devil
The Hickory Horned Devil (Citheronia regalis) stands as West Virginia’s most impressive caterpillar, reaching lengths of five to six inches with prominent orange and black “horns” protruding from its head. Despite its fearsome appearance, this gentle giant is completely harmless.
These magnificent caterpillars feed primarily on hickory, walnut, sweetgum, and persimmon trees throughout West Virginia’s hardwood forests. Their large size makes them conspicuous when encountered during late summer hiking.
The “horns” serve purely as defensive displays designed to frighten potential predators. When threatened, Hickory Horned Devils arch their bodies backward and wave their imposing head decorations menacingly.
Interesting Fact: Hickory Horned Devils transform into Royal Walnut Moths, among the largest moths in North America with wingspans reaching six inches.
Finding a Hickory Horned Devil represents a special wildlife encounter, as their populations have declined in many areas due to habitat loss and pesticide applications.
23. American Dagger Moth Caterpillar
American Dagger Moth caterpillars (Acronicta americana) sport dense yellow fur interrupted by distinctive black “pencils” or tufts of longer hairs projecting from their backs. These eye-catching larvae feed on various deciduous trees throughout West Virginia.
The caterpillars prefer feeding on tree leaves rather than herbaceous plants, making them more common in wooded areas and mature landscapes. Their feeding typically doesn’t cause noticeable damage to healthy trees.
Handling Precaution: The dense hairs can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, similar to other fuzzy caterpillar species found in West Virginia.
American Dagger caterpillars often rest on tree trunks during daylight hours, relying on their cryptic coloration to blend seamlessly with bark surfaces and avoid predator detection.
The species produces one generation annually in West Virginia, with caterpillars most commonly encountered during late summer and early fall months when they’re preparing for pupation.
24. Hummingbird Clearwing Caterpillar
Hummingbird Clearwing caterpillars find their preferred host in various viburnum species that grow commonly throughout West Virginia’s woodland understory. These green hornworms feature white diagonal stripes and the characteristic tail spine.
The caterpillars also accept other viburnum species and occasionally feed on honeysuckle when their preferred hosts aren’t readily available. Their feeding rarely causes significant damage to healthy shrubs.
Hummingbird Clearwing caterpillars pupate in underground chambers, emerging as remarkable day-flying moths that closely mimic hummingbirds in both appearance and flight behavior.
Habitat Conservation: West Virginia’s woodland habitats face continuing pressure from development, making conservation efforts crucial for woodland-dependent species survival.
Adult moths visit flowers during daylight hours, serving as important pollinators for various native plants throughout West Virginia’s remaining natural forest areas.
25. Buckeye Caterpillar
Buckeye caterpillars appear dark brown to black with distinctive stripes along their backs and sides, plus defensive spines covering their entire bodies. These spiky larvae feed on plantain, snapdragon, and other plants in open locations.
Common Buckeye caterpillars (Junonia coenia) prefer disturbed habitats like roadsides, old fields, and garden edges where their host plants naturally establish throughout West Virginia’s diverse landscape.
The butterflies favor open spaces like pastures and old fields, flying low to the ground while remaining constantly alert for potential predators and territorial threats.
Migration Strategy: In northern regions like West Virginia, Common Buckeyes migrate south for winter survival and return north in spring for breeding, producing multiple generations.
Individual caterpillars feed alone rather than in groups, typically causing minimal damage to their host plants while providing their spiny appearance as effective predator protection.
26. Viceroy Caterpillar
Viceroy caterpillars (Limenitis archippus) display mottled brown and cream coloration that provides excellent camouflage against willow and poplar bark throughout West Virginia’s riparian areas. These masters of disguise feature distinctive horn-like projections.
The caterpillars construct individual shelters called hibernacula by rolling leaves and securing them with silk webbing. They use these protective structures during molting periods and overwintering, depending on seasonal timing.
Viceroy caterpillars feed exclusively on willow and poplar trees, making them relatively easy to locate in appropriate streamside and wetland habitats throughout the state.
Mimicry Connection: Adult Viceroy butterflies famously mimic toxic Monarch butterflies, gaining protection through their resemblance even though Viceroys remain completely palatable.
The species produces multiple generations annually in West Virginia, with different broods employing varying overwintering strategies based on seasonal development timing and local climate conditions.
Conclusion
West Virginia’s diverse caterpillar community showcases the Mountain State’s position as one of the Northeast’s most biologically rich regions. From the harmless Giant Leopard caterpillars that curl into defensive balls to the venomous Io Moths that pack serious stings, each species has evolved unique survival strategies suited to Appalachian conditions.
Key Takeaways: Understanding caterpillar identification enhances outdoor safety, supports conservation efforts for declining species, and deepens appreciation for ecosystem complexity. Many species face mounting pressures from habitat loss, invasive plants, and climate change, making backyard conservation efforts increasingly vital.
Creating caterpillar-friendly environments requires minimal effort—reducing pesticide applications, planting native host plants, and tolerating minor feeding damage can significantly impact local populations.
West Virginia’s remarkable biological diversity depends on maintaining connected habitats that support complete life cycles from egg to adult.
Whether you encounter a magnificent Hickory Horned Devil during mountain hiking or discover Monarch caterpillars in your garden milkweed, you’re witnessing crucial links in nature’s intricate web.
These future butterflies and moths serve as pollinators, bird food, and indicators of environmental health throughout the wild and wonderful state of West Virginia.
