Sycamore moth caterpillar, Acronicta aceris
Sycamore moth caterpillar, Acronicta aceris (submitted by NaturePlus user hedgehogmad1976)
This bright caterpillar has large spiky tufts of yellowish-orange hairs, with black and white spots running along its back. It is a fairly common species within the UK, primarily the south, and throughout Europe.
Sycamore tree leaves are what it generally prefers to feed on, but it also feeds on plants like horse chestnut.
These caterpillars overwinter as pupa, and emerge as adults during the summer.
