Peter Dexter
Well-known member
This cocoon...
...is produced by this caterpiller which may be in the subfamily Arctiinae, a group of moths.
The "hairs" of the cocoon appear to be the recycled spines of the caterpillar. On the live animal they would contain venom that would produce a painful sting if touched. I wonder if when covering the cocoon they retain some venom protecting it from preditors.
...is produced by this caterpiller which may be in the subfamily Arctiinae, a group of moths.
The "hairs" of the cocoon appear to be the recycled spines of the caterpillar. On the live animal they would contain venom that would produce a painful sting if touched. I wonder if when covering the cocoon they retain some venom protecting it from preditors.
