Caterpillars
Fuzzy Black Caterpillar Identification
Usually a woolly bear, gypsy moth larva, or tussock moth — check for orange or brown bands before touching.
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Field notes
Woolly bears (Pyrrharctia isabella) have a rust-orange middle band and black ends — the wider the black, the harsher the winter, according to folklore. Tussock moth caterpillars have prominent white or yellow tufts and can cause skin irritation — don't handle bare-handed.
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