Knowledgebase
Possible American Dagger caterpillar #725765
Asked September 21, 2020, 1:27 PM EDT
These caterpillars completely stripped one of my small spruce-like ornamental tree, and cocooned on it, about 2 months ago. The tree was sprayed, and is recovering. I just found another caterpillar on my back sidewalk. Is this an American Dagger caterpillar?
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
Yes, it appears to be American Dagger moth caterpillar.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/fuzzy_fall_visitors_caterpillars_that_attract_attention_and_could_cause_nee
Keep your evergreens watered each week, up to when the ground freezes next month, if we have no rain in the week. This helps them better survive the winter and put out new growth next spring.
Yes, it appears to be American Dagger moth caterpillar.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/fuzzy_fall_visitors_caterpillars_that_attract_attention_and_could_cause_nee
Keep your evergreens watered each week, up to when the ground freezes next month, if we have no rain in the week. This helps them better survive the winter and put out new growth next spring.
