All printables
Pine processionary caterpillar — printable fact sheet
Free to print or save as PDF. Great for classrooms, homeschooling, and young explorers.
Creature Atlas
Animal Fact Sheet
Name: ____________________
Date: ____________________
Pine processionary caterpillar
Thaumetopea pityocampa
The pine processionary caterpillar is the larval stage of the pine processionary moth, notorious for its unique behavior of moving in long nose-to-tail processions. Native to southern Europe, North Africa, and parts of the Middle East, these caterpillars feed primarily on pine n…
Did you know?
- The caterpillar's hairs can become airborne and cause respiratory problems in humans and animals, even without direct contact.
- Pine processionary caterpillars are famous for their processional behavior, where hundreds may march in a single file line. Their urticating hairs are a defense mechanism against predators. The species is considered a serious pest in Mediterranean pine forests.
What I learned
Draw the pine processionary caterpillar
© Creature Atlas · www.creatureatlas.com · Free for classroom & personal use
Want the whole set?
Get printable fact-sheet packs, coloring pages, and classroom worksheet bundles for dozens of animals — ready to download and print.
Browse printable packsGet a free printable each week
Join the newsletter for a new Creature of the Week + printables.