–by Dr. Raymond Cloyd
Have you noticed the leaves of your sunflower (Helianthus annuus) plants being fed upon by caterpillars (Figure 1)? If so, the caterpillar in question is the gorgone checkerspot (Chlosyne gorgone). The caterpillar ranges in color from black to orange, with a black head and spines or barbs covering the body (Figure 2). The caterpillars feed on sunflowers and other related plants. The young caterpillars feed in groups (Figure 3) whereas the mature caterpillars, which are approximately 1.0 inch in length, feed individually (Figure 4). Third instar larvae will eventually search for a place to overwinter.
Figure 1. Gorgone Checkerspot Caterpillars Feeding On Sunflower Leaf (Raymond Cloyd, KSU)
Figure 2. Gorgone Checkerspot Caterpillar (Raymond Cloyd, KSU)
Figure 3. Young Gorgone Checkerspot Caterpillars Feeding In A Group (Raymond Cloyd, KSU)
Figure 4. Mature Gorgone Caterpillar (Raymond Cloyd, KSU)
If you see the caterpillars feeding on sunflower leaves and your plants can tolerate some feeding damage, then just leave them alone as the caterpillars will eventually develop, by means of complete metamorphosis, into beautiful butterflies.