On Black-eyed Susans - and other flowers - caterpillars known as Camouflaged Loopers (Synchlore aerata) present bizarre and colorful profiles to foil a world of hungry predators. Each caterpillar cuts segments of whatever flower it's on and attaches them with silk to spines on its back. The color appropriate camouflage is replaced if it starts to wilt or fade. The caterpillar is only without camouflage immediately after moulting its skin, a process necessary from time to time as it grows.
Synchlora aerata is the larva of a green moth formerly known as the Wavy-lined Emerald. The moth is pretty, but I think the larva is the far more fascinating life phase of this insect and I was thrilled to find them this morning.
John
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| Camoflaged Looper caterpillar |
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