It helps to know which part of the country you live in and what plant the insect was found on. Personally, it looks like some kind of hornworm with braconid wasp cocoons. It's probably a tomato hornworm but tobacco hornworms are quite similar. Hope that helps you with your research.

Don't kill it! The wasp larvae will do that for you. That wasp is a much desired beneficial bug.

Marc, in her first post Gabrielle mentioned that the caterpillar was found on a gardenia which makes it highly unlikely that it's a tomato or tobacco hornworm. There are lots of other green hornworms....I suggested the Rustic Sphinx moth caterpillar, which will feed on gardenia.

Marc - I said "second pic" thinking it would direct people back to my first pic with more info. Sorry! I should have specifically said what I posted the first time, or directed back somehow. I know better for next time! Anyway, pretty sure rhizo_1 was right. As far as my zone, it used to be in my ID line - 7a - not sure why it disappeared. Tried to add again and gardenweb would not allow it unless I posted my birthday. I asked why and they said something about ensuring there were no underage individuals using the site. I can certainly understand that for a lot of sites, but not one about gardening.

Zackey - Thanks for the input. Rhizo_1 gave that info, quite detailed, on my first post. Told him/her made me almost feel sorry for the caterpillar! : )

Sorry it took me so long to respond to both of your helpful posts - I am usually quick with my thanks!