Unusual Clear Blue Caterpillar: Leaf Roller, Likely Montane Ochre Skipper

Teacher found clear blue caterpillar with black/white striped head, sewing leaves with silk. Worried about cocoon on detached leaf. Later photo provided.

Expert Analysis

Likely a leaf roller caterpillar. Leaf will die but not whole plant. Caterpillar enters pupa stage inside leaf. Cocoon duration ~1 month to 6 weeks. Adult emerges, lays eggs, doesn't feed. Expert identifies as Montane Ochre Skipper butterfly.

Resource: Montane Ochre Skipper info

Blue caterpillar