Leopard Moth Caterpillar

I believe this fuzzy fellow is a leopard moth caterpillar. Although they appear to be cute and harmless, they are actually destructive creatures that bore through the stems and heartwood of trees. It takes two to three years for their life cycle to be completed. When the moths emerge in June to early fall, they are bright white with black spots. The adult moths are strictly nocturnal and generally do not fly before nighttime, which is why I have been unable to photograph one. This photo was taken last Sunday at the Connetquot River State Park.