At LOOP NOLA, we experience all outdoor seasons — including caterpillar season. We teach all of our students that it’s important to respect the environment, and that includes caterpillars. We are writing on this topic today to help folks learn the difference between harmless caterpillars and stinging caterpillars. We hope this helps you enjoy spring in the outdoors!

New Orleans is known for its warm climate, lush greenery, and diverse wildlife. Among the many fascinating creatures that inhabit the city, caterpillars are one of the most interesting. Caterpillars are the larval stage of butterflies and moths, and they come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. In this blog post, we will explore 7 common caterpillars found in New Orleans, both stinging and non-stinging.

7 Common Caterpillars in New Orleans

* Click on images for links to original pictures*

Eastern Tent Caterpillar

Black Swallowtail Caterpillar

Puss Caterpillar

Buck Moth Caterpillar

Io Moth Caterpillar

White-marked Tussock Moth Caterpillar

Saddleback Caterpillar

New Orleans is home to a broad range of caterpillars, both stinging and non-stinging. While some caterpillars can be harmful if touched, others are harmless and even beneficial to the ecosystem. It is important to know the difference between the two both to avoid a painful sting and to appreciate the rich diversity of our local critters.