Critters of the Week

Adult version – Photo courtesy of IDtools.com

Where Spotted: Westover Hills
Common Name: Saddleback Caterpillar
Scientific Name: Acharia stimulea
Length: 25 mm

Quick Facts

• It has a pair of fleshy horns at either end. These and most of the rest of the body bear urticating hairs that secrete an irritating venom. (We found out the hard way at this household.)
• Similar to a slug, Acharia stimulea uses suckers and mucus to help them roll and adhere to surfaces.
• Acharia stimulea are polyphagous and do not rely on a single plant species for survival though they tend to favor palms.
• While pupating the cocoon appears to be a hardened light brown spherical shape with black veining that is encompassed in silk webbing. This webbing is made up in part by caterpillars’ stinging thorns which helps attach and protect the caterpillar through its metamorphosis.

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Left Eye at Richmond SPCA

I may have one eye, but I still can recognize a great family when I see one! I’m Left Eye and what I lack in eyes, I make up for in love & affection. Come take me home today, I can tell you’d be purrfect!

Age: 2 years,
Gender: Spayed Female
Color: Black / White
ID: 48670944

Adopt Left Eye at Richmond SPCA

Learn more about their adoption process.