Polyphemus Moth caterpillars – week 2

The Polyphemus caterpillars have been ‘eating machines’! In two weeks they’ve doubled in size.

Polyphemus Moth Caterpillar at two weeks

Do I dare call them ‘cute’? How about all the red ‘knobs and spikes’? Click the image below for a closer look at their fringed feet (or classy ‘shoes’)!

Polyphemus Moth Caterpillar – close-up at two weeks

A friend recently asked, “What good are moths?” They are an important part of nature for several reasons, however I’ll limit myself to two.

1. They create caterpillars, and without caterpillars there would likely be no songbirds. I do like songbirds, and more than 90% of them rely on caterpillars and other insects to feed their young.

2. And, for some of us, caterpillars are quite entertaining. 🙂 

Stay tuned for future caterpillar adventures!

5 thoughts on “Polyphemus Moth caterpillars – week 2”

  1. Beautiful shots Betty! Look forward to seeing more photos as they grow and transform into beautiful moths. Thanks too for the reminder that caterpillars are a substantial part of a young songbirds diet – the wonderful inter-connectedness of life.

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