There are caterpillars on my milkweed but they aren’t Monarchs. Instead, I have Milkweed Tussock Moth caterpillars (Euchaetes egle).
Some folks refer to them as ‘the yarn caterpillar.’ They do resemble tufts of yarn and are very soft to the touch.
Milkweed Tussock moth eggs are usually laid generously on older Milkweeds while Monarchs generally lay only one or two eggs per plant and prefer younger, more tender leaves.
I’d be much more excited about Monarch caterpillars. However, I have plenty of mature Common Milkweed leaves and am glad to have a diversity of insects adding interest to the backyard.
Fascinating! I will look for Tussock moth eggs on my milkweed. Your blog is always interesting. Thanks, Jane
Ahhh, caterpillars wearing fashionable angora sweaters 🙂 – beautiful!
That’s a great description, Beth. Thank you.
Hi Betty, is your header picture from your yard? It is SO beautiful!
Yes, Keli, it is. Thank you.
Thank you for the info. I usually have monarch caterpillars on my milkweed but this year I have both types of caterpillars.
Sharon, thanks for your comment. I prefer the monarch caterpillars by far, but also find the tussocks ‘interesting’ as long as they don’t interfere with the monarchs!🙂