Cecropia Moth Larva

The 3rd instar develops some vivid red, blue, and yellow coloration. The first instar is all black and the second one has a yellowish body, but still with black tubercles. The 3rd instar shows what I consider the most dramatic transformation of the series.

The larvae were started on willow, because their favorite host in my yard is Escarpment Black Cherry, and it had not leafed out in time. Two weeks later, however, the larvae made the switch to the cherry without pause, and are now happily munching in 6 foot sleeves on the cherry trees.
See Cecropia album > HERE.