Hickory Tussock Moths (Lophocampa caryae) are members of the tiger moth family. Their larvae or caterpillars are grouped in the "wooly" type of caterpillars (think the Wooly Bear Caterpillar).
Hickory Tussock Moths are found in broad-leafed forests that run from the northest to south-central portions of the United States.
Adults do not feed. Larvae form communal feeding groups that skeletonize the leaves of nut trees -- eating the soft green leaf material and leaving the hard leaf veins.
The hairs on the Hemlock Tussock Moth Caterpillar are barbed and can transmit a poison that can result in a serious skin rash and / or intense eye irritation. The caterpillars also incorporate the hairs into their cocoons -- so best not to touch them either.
To make matters worse, Hemlock Tussock Moths have also been known to bite when disturbed.
