In Tagalog, a caterpillar is called higad or uod.
The word higad usually refers to hairy or stinging caterpillars, while uod is a more general term for worm‑like larvae. Caterpillars are commonly found on leaves, plants, and trees across the Philippines, where they play an important role in nature—eventually transforming into butterflies or moths.
This guide includes vocabulary words related to caterpillars, example sentences, and interesting facts about caterpillar species found in the Philippines.
Caterpillar Vocabulary Words in Tagalog
Here are common Tagalog words connected to caterpillars and their environment:
- Higad / Uod – caterpillar
- Hayop – animal
- Halaman – plant
- Berde – green
- Dahon – leaf
- Insekto – insect
- Paru‑paro – butterfly
- Bukid – farm
- Hayop na walang buto – invertebrate
These words help describe caterpillars, their behavior, and their natural habitats.
Example Sentences Using “Caterpillar” in Tagalog
Here are simple Tagalog sentences to help you practice:
- Ang higad ay may tatlong pares ng mga mata.
A caterpillar has three pairs of eyes. - Ang higad ay may mga sihang para sa pagnguya ng mga dahon.
A caterpillar has mandibles for chewing leaves. - Ang higad ay lumalaki habang ito ay kumakain ng maraming mga dahon.
A caterpillar grows while eating lots of leaves. - Ang trabaho ng isang higad ay kumain ng maraming dahon.
A caterpillar’s job is to eat a lot of leaves. - Ang higad ay may puso at may utak.
A caterpillar has a heart and a brain. - Ang balat ng itlog ng higad ay mayaman sa protina.
The eggshell of a caterpillar is rich in protein. - Kakainin ng higad ang mga dahon at pati ang kanyang sariling tae.
A caterpillar will eat leaves and even its own poop. - Ang higad ay walang mga ngipin.
A caterpillar does not have any teeth. - Ang higad ay nakakakuha ng tubig sa mga dahon na kanyang kinakain.
A caterpillar gets water from the leaves it eats. - Ang mabuhok na higad ay maaaring magbigay sa iyo ng makating pakiramdam.
A hairy caterpillar can make your skin feel itchy.
Common Caterpillars in the Philippines
The Philippines is home to many caterpillar species—some harmless, some itchy, and some incredibly beautiful. Here are notable examples:
Higad (Tussock Moth Larvae)
- Known for itchy, venomous hairs
- Common in rural and forested areas
- Can cause skin irritation or rashes
Lime Swallowtail (Papilio demoleus)
- Often found on calamansi and citrus plants
- A common garden species
Attacus lorquinii (Atlas Moth Caterpillar)
- One of the largest caterpillars in the Philippines
- Can reach up to 11 cm in length
Autumn Leaf Caterpillar (Doleschallia bisaltide)
- Known for its distinct appearance
- Found in gardens and forest edges
Sphinx Moth Caterpillars
- Sometimes mimic snakes as a defensive behavior
Crowned Slug Caterpillar
- A small but stinging caterpillar found on palm trees
Regional Names for Caterpillars
Different regions in the Philippines have their own terms:
- Higad – Tagalog; often refers to itchy, hairy caterpillars
- Karindurunot – local dialect term for stinging caterpillars
- Iras – Hiligaynon; urticating caterpillar
- Antataro – Bicol; red, hairy, itchy caterpillar
Safety and Ecology
Caterpillars play an important role in the ecosystem, but some can be harmful to touch.
Safety Notes
- Hairy caterpillars (especially Tussock Moth larvae) can cause itching, rashes, or stinging
- Avoid touching caterpillars with visible hairs or spines
- Wash skin immediately if exposed to irritating hairs
Ecological Importance
- Many species are key pests in agriculture (e.g., coconut and citrus farms)
- Caterpillars are essential food sources for birds and other wildlife
- They contribute to biodiversity and the life cycle of butterflies and moths
Conclusion
Learning how to say caterpillar in Tagalog helps you describe insects, plants, and nature in everyday conversations. Caterpillars are fascinating creatures—sometimes itchy, sometimes beautiful, but always important to the ecosystem.