Your pretty caterpillar will grow into a
Grey Dagger Moth (
Acronicta psi).
It's final colouring will be grey with small black dagger markings on its wings - hence its name.
It has a preference for rosaceous trees and shrubs.
The damage caused to leaves is not very noticeable, so any remedial action is not required. Therefore Eric, I wouldn't regard it as a pest.
Active between July-November, the caterpillar then forms a cocoon by spinning a silk case around itself and hides under loose bark or rotten wood. It hibernates over winter in the cocoon and then transforms itself into a beautiful Grey Dagger Moth.
Beautiful close-up photos too Eric. Makes identification so much easier.
Laurie.
