How to Identify Caterpillars of New York State

New York State has a wide variety of caterpillars and other interesting insects. It can be challenging to positively identify a caterpillar crawling on your garden plants or hanging from a tree branch, if you're unaware of insect-identification resources in your area. To successfully identify the creature, it's often beneficial to observe the creature and record as much information as possible about its appearance and behavior. Use available resources in the community and online to assist in your search to uncover the caterpillar's identity.

Things You'll Need

  • Camera-phone or digital camera
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Observe the caterpillar and record your observations. Note the caterpillar's color or colors, size, odd or distinctive markings or unusual patterns.

    • 2

      Take pictures of the caterpillar with a camera-phone or digital camera, if available. This will come in handy with the creature's identification, especially if the caterpillar crawls away.

    • 3

      Consult reference materials. Take the pictures with you and visit a local library or book store. Ask a librarian or store clerk to help you locate books about New York State caterpillars. Browse through the pictures and read any captions or notes near the picture to help with identification.

    • 4

      Review the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's caterpillar comparison chart to help you identify three native caterpillars, if you notice half-eaten leaves or bare areas on your trees. This resources helps users identify these particular caterpillars by their appearance and the type of tree or plant that it attacks. You can also view pictures of each caterpillar and read information about ways to eliminate the pesky creatures.

      Distinctive markings appear on each caterpillar, which makes it easier to spot the trio.

      Gypsy Moth: Five pairs of blue spots and six pairs of red spots appear along its back.

      Forest Tent: Light blue stripes trail along its sides and white footprint-shaped marks cover the creature's back.

      Eastern Tent: Black spots run along its sides and a white line with light-blue and black spots appears on its back.

    • 5

      Access Discover Life's caterpillar identification website. This resource helps identify caterpillars based on physical characteristics. Click the check box next to each characteristic that describes the caterpillar and click "Search." A list of caterpillars matching the description will appear.

    • 6

      Click "See Map" in the left-hand column to view the area where the caterpillar resides. A native New York State caterpillar would appear on the east coast portion of the U.S. map.