What do the markings on the head of this Lappet Moth Caterpillar look like to you? Perhaps it looks like a sunny yellow smiley face, or more of a menacing mask or skull that’s meant to ward off predators. Nature photographer David Weiller, who captured this footage in Borneo, writes:
“Notice the 2 small ovals dark dots representing the eyes and the black arc representing the mouth with creases at the sides. Besides its head, it also has two pairs of black and yellow ‘horns’ with black hair tufts and white tips…
Lappet moth caterpillars have long urticating hairs that deter birds and other predators.”
He also notes that there are around 2,000 species of lappet moths in the family Lasiocampidae found around the globe.
Interesting note: A lappet is “a decorative flap, fold or hanging part of a headdress or garment.”
Previously from Weiller: The Lychen Katydid camouflages.
Observe more caterpillar videos on TKSST, including:
• Pulsing Slug Moth Caterpillars
• The flannel moth caterpillar is furry, brightly colored, & venomous
• A time lapse of pine processionary caterpillars
• Monarch Butterfly Metamorphosis in HD
• The Jewel Caterpillar (Minacraga argentata) of Ecuador
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