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The Hickory Horn Devil

OK, so our first entry in this year's series not only has a creepy-sounding name, but a rather foreboding appearance as well. In truth, the Hickory Horn Devil is a caterpillar that will soon inherit a royal title as it becomes an adult Citheronia regalis, the Regal Moth, or the Royal Walnut moth as it is known in some ecological circles.

Due to the long horns near the head (which do not sting) and its preferred food plants of hickory and walnut trees, the caterpillar is often referred to as the Hickory Horn Devil. Late in the summer, the caterpillars will leave their food plants and move to the ground to burrow and pupate over the fall and winter. As part of the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program, WPC's Natural Heritage Program scientists work with experts around the country to verify the conservation status of this and many other species.

• See a photo of the regal moth
• See an enhanced creepy version of the hickory horn devil
• View our October 2004 series Naturally Creepy Places in Western Pennsylvania
• View our October 2003 series Creatures in Need of a Press Agent

Above photo by Hilary Nelson.

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