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Snake salute11/11/2022 Copying at its very core is the antonym of original, after all. Now normally, we wouldn’t call the “stealing” or mimicking of another’s appearance original. The Spicebush Swallowtail will even rear its body (or the “head” of the snake) up to further enhance the illusion. The faux eyes and yellow highlighting around the edges make the top of the caterpillar’s body look just like a snake, a stern warning to any predators thinking about downing it for a snack. The Spicebush Swallowtail caterpillar has also taken a cue from the serpent. (If you look closely, you can see the caterpillars legs folded between the “eyes” of the snake.)īut the Hawkmoth isn’t the only caterpillar who mimics snakes. When threatened, the Hawkmoth caterpillar puffs up and flips over, revealing an underside of markings that bear a striking resemblance to a snakes head. It’s actually the Hawkmoth caterpillar’s clever serpent disguise. This is going to be hard to believe, but no, this is not a snake. But a couple caterpillar species have taken a different approach: they have blatantly copied another creature’s appearance. Because of this, some caterpillars have adapted chilling spines, venomous fur, or stinging barbs and bristles to ward off enemies. Smaller than a vast majority of its fellow creatures, the odds really aren’t in its favor for survival from a size standpoint. Imitation is sometimes the difference between life and death. But when it comes to the animal kingdom, imitation isn’t about staying trendy or cool. We mimic ideas, styles, attitudes, and more, all the time. And that sentiment is often true when it comes to humans. They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Thursday Salute to Originals: Original Imitation
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