Insect Info:
All caterpillars are larvae of moths or butterflies, and many of them are fit for human consumption. The eastern tent caterpillar is among twenty-six identified species of tent caterpillar that inhabit North America, Mexico, and Eurasia. Many of them are often considered pests because they defoliate trees and shrubs, so eating them in the wild not only provides you with nutrition but also reduces environmental degradation.
The eastern tent caterpillar is the larvae of the snout moth. It is believed to be toxic to horses but after cooking does not pose a threat to humans. Typically, eastern tent caterpillars are black and hairy with a white stripe and blue or red markings, though different color variations exist. Many species of tent caterpillar are found across the U.S.
Tent caterpillars and other caterpillars can be eaten as part of a nutritious diet in the wild. They are easy to identify and collect because of the conspicuous silk tents that they build in the forks and crotches of trees, and because they are active during the day and are often brightly colored. It’s best to seek them out in late spring or summer, since the adult moth lays its eggs in early spring. They feed on deciduous trees and shrubs, especially apples, aspens, and wild cherries.
How To Eat:
People in northern Zambia monitor caterpillar growth and adhere to strict harvesting schedules. Caterpillars are smoked and then stored for use in times of need.
People eat deep-fried caterpillars in Mexico as a delicacy. Often, the caterpillars are seasoned with salt and chili and served in a tortilla. Generally, caterpillars are high in protein, B vitamins, and iron, and have little fat. They can be dry roasted or fried in oil over a fire until they are crispy. You can also boil them though they won’t be as crispy. For a 3.5 ounce serving, caterpillars provide 0.7-1.9 ounces of protein and 0.7 ounces of monounsaturated fat.