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While the caterpillars may form single file processions as they advance over the branches of the host tree in search of food,the most spectacular processions are formed when the caterpillars are fully grown and abandon the host tree in search of pupation sites. Over-the-ground processions of as many as three hundred caterpillars have been observed. The caterpillars may travel long distances from the natal tree looking for soft soil in which they bury themselves and form their cocoons. Studies show that during these head to tail processions, stimuli associated with setae found on the tip of the abdomen of the precedent caterpillar serve to hold processions together and such stimuli take priority over those associated with either the trail pheromone or silk. A caterpillar can be readily


induced to follow a model made by attaching the integument of the abdomen of a killed caterpillar to a wooden dowel .


Anti-Predator Defense


These caterpillars are highly irritating. Contact with the hairs causes skin rashes and eye irritations. Susceptible individuals may also develop an allergic response to a protein associated with the hairs of the caterpillar.


With thanks to Terrence D. Fitzgerald Professor of Biological Science State University of New York at Cortland


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