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Walnut caterpillar

Walnut caterpillar

Datana integerrima

A species of Datana

The walnut caterpillar (Datana integerrima) has a name that is dominated by its caterpillar form. This is because of their ability to swarm and defoliate walnut trees, making them a major potential pest. The adults are known to mimic dead leaves, it is hard to find them if they land on the ground covered with leaves.

Does the Walnut caterpillar cause allergies?
Allergenic
General Info About Walnut caterpillar
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Attributes of Walnut caterpillar
Colors
Brown
White
Habitat
forest
Adult Food Sources
Nectar from white flowers, nectar from small, tubular flowers, sap from damaged trees, overripe fruit, honeydew secretions
Larva Food Source
Hickory, walnut, oak, willow, birch
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
The Walnut caterpillar has special defensive behaviors that can trigger an allergic reaction. If there are serious reactions, seek IMMEDIATE medical attention.
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Walnut caterpillar
It is found in eastern North America.
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Distribution Area of Walnut caterpillar
Eastern North America, Ontario, most of the Eastern States, Minnesota, Northern Mexico
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Appearance of Walnut caterpillar
The wingspan is 3.5 - 5 cm.
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How to Identify Walnut caterpillar?

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Life Cycle of Walnut caterpillar
Egg The embryonic stage begins with eggs laid often on plant leaves. Eggs are minute and exhibit colors and patterns serving as camouflage. The walnut caterpillar remains in the egg until it has developed enough to survive in the next stage.
Larva Upon hatching, the walnut caterpillar larva is a voracious feeder almost exclusively focused on growth. During this stage, molting occurs frequently as the larva increases in size, often changing color and pattern to better hide from predators.
Pupal The walnut caterpillar enters the pupal stage after larvae encapsulate themselves in cocoons. Transformation is profound as tissues reorganize. The dormant exterior may blend with the environment, while internal changes prepare for the adult form.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult walnut caterpillar's development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction.
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Adult Size of Walnut caterpillar
3.5 - 5 cm
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Interesting Facts About Walnut caterpillar
Walnut caterpillar larvae can create communal nests by joining leaves with silk, which they use for protection during molting stages.
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Scientific Classification of Walnut caterpillar
Tips for Finding Walnut caterpillar
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Youth Habitat of Walnut caterpillar
Forests and Woodlands, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Adult Habitat of Walnut caterpillar
Forests and Woodlands
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How Can You Attract Walnut caterpillar
For adult walnut caterpillar, light traps or bait composed of fermenting sweet substances can be effective due to the creature's attraction to sugars and light.
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Habitat Preferences of Walnut caterpillar Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of walnut caterpillar are typically found on the undersides of host leaves, such as walnut, hickory, and birch, where they are laid in clusters. Caterpillars reside on the leaves of these trees, often feeding in groups. To locate the pupae, one must search the ground around these trees during late summer or fall, as these insects pupate in the soil or leaf litter. Adults are nocturnal and can be found near the aforementioned trees, attracted to light sources during the night. Searching at night with a light is the most effective method to locate adult walnut caterpillar.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Walnut caterpillar
The best time to find adult walnut caterpillar is usually at night as they are nocturnal and are attracted to light sources. For caterpillar stages, daytime searching on host plants is more productive.
Are Walnut caterpillar harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Walnut caterpillar
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Allergenic
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Does the Walnut caterpillar cause allergies?

The walnut caterpillar can cause allergic reactions in a small number of people through contact with its hair, particularly during its larval stage. These allergies can range from mild to severe, with symptoms manifesting upon contact with the larval hairs. Individuals may experience different degrees of reactions, and those with greater sensitivity should avoid contact with the larvae to minimize risk.

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Hurt Plant

Walnut caterpillar caterpillars cause significant injury to various hardwoods by chewing plant tissues. They primarily consume the leaves of walnut, pecan, hickory, and butternut trees. Due to their feeding habits, walnut caterpillar can strip foliage extensively, leading to a reduction in the tree’s ability to photosynthesize, which can weaken the tree and impair growth.

More Effects of Walnut caterpillar

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