Ignore the name. This larva (caterpillar) and moth are found in many habitats not just salt marshes. This larva was found on wild senna at Daniel Boone Homestead in Berks County, PA. The adults were found in a field in Rockland Twp. The larva color is extremely variable. Color ranges from blond or yellow to black. Only the black or rusty colored caterpillars could be mistaken for the woolly bear. Hairs at ends of the body are extra long. Hairs are soft. Caterpillars feed on a large range of low plants and some trees.

Only the black or rusty colored caterpillars could be confused with the woolly bear.