I spent an hour or so with two of these hairy caterpillars this morning. It's nice to shoot a subject that stays put for awhile :0)
This is an Eastern Tent Caterpillar (Malacosoma-americanum). I had to look them up. I've seen them all my life, but never really looked at them.
I found out they live in a web tent. As soon as I read that, I knew where the tent was. I have taken a few pics of it before. I just didn't know what was in it.
They hatch in the web and continue living there. They leave it three times a day to eat. They eat just before dawn, mid-afternoon, and in the evening after sunset. They return to the web after each meal. I thought this was really interesting! At least I know what time of the day I can find them!
Great collage and very interesting story. Have fav'd it; love the caption and the clarity of the shot with all the detail. The pic at top right is great, with those tiny feet grasping the stalk.
Sensational capture Carolyn - great macros and really interesting information. I am discovering so much about so many things through this project. Thanks for stalking this little dudes for us today.
