Datana ministra, the yellownecked caterpillar, is a moth of the  family Notodontidae. It is found in southern Canada and the United States east of the Rocky Mountains, in the south-west it ranges to California.
 The wingspan is about 42 mm. There is one generation per year.
 The larvae feed on Malus, Quercus, Betula and Salix species. Young larvae skeletonise the leaves of their host plant. Later, they feed on all of the leaf except the leaf stalk. They feed in groups. The larvae are yellowish and black striped and covered with fine, white hairs. The head is black. Full-grown larvae are about 50 mm long. Mature larvae drop to the soil to pupate underground, where they spend the winter.

harmful

Datana ministra are considered tree pests because their larvae feed on the leaves of various tree species, causing defoliation and potentially weakening or killing the trees.

tree pest

Datana ministra can be considered garden pests because their larvae feed on the leaves of various plants, including those commonly found in gardens, which can lead to defoliation and damage to the overall health and appearance of the garden plants.

garden pest

Datana ministra can be considered crop pests because their larvae have been known to feed on the leaves of certain crop plants, such as corn and soybeans, leading to reduced yields and potential economic losses for farmers.

crop pest

Datana ministra are considered pests because their larvae feed on the leaves of various trees, garden plants, and crops, causing defoliation and potential damage to the health and productivity of these plants.

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How big does a yellownecked caterpillar get?

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