Definition
A "tent caterpillar" is the larva of various moth species known for building silken tents in trees. These caterpillars are social insects, living and feeding together within their tent-like structures. They typically feed on the foliage of deciduous trees, sometimes causing significant defoliation. Their tents provide protection from predators and adverse weather conditions. Think of them as communal condo builders of the insect world, always expanding their living space. These caterpillars undergo complete metamorphosis, transforming from larva to pupa to adult moth. Their presence can be a nuisance, but they also play a role in the ecosystem.