An invader on my new basil plant! My bug app says it is the caterpillar of the Live Oak Tussock Moth. Although they prefer oak and pine trees, it looks like this one settled for basil. I left him alone, which was wise because the spines can cause a rash. Turns out it was not my day, however, as I was later stung by a yellow jacket. Ah, spring....
Looks like a caterpillar to me… Not a moth! Just saying’ L O L❣️ Spectacular detail and clarity to your photo of it. Whatever it is. So sorry to hear about the Yellow jacket sting.
Oh, so sorry to hear about the bee sting! They are bad. I think all the Tussock Moths are poisonous and cause rashes- not sure how to get him off the basil, but I'm not sure you want to keep him there either! Great close-up though!
