Observation date: March 11, 2012
Submitted by: jennphull
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: Found outside out home (we have spotted three separate caterpillars that are just like it). We live in Porter Ranch California near a great deal of plants and foliage. The caterpillars move very fast, have spikes and we have not seen it near any plants. We think it will turn into a moth, but not sure. Kids are excited about the sighting!
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Davenport
Verified date: March 15, 2012
Coordinator notes: Rear it through and see what it turns out to be. It looks like a Mourning Cloak Butterfly caterpillar to me, a species I have reared to adult, the best way to see what they are.