More dramatic examples of cryptic strategies displayed here from insects seen at Mount Totumas Cloud Forest. Check it out.
This moth imitates a dead leaf in its coloration but also the contour of its hind wings mimics the damage done from a feeding caterpillar. So we have an adult moth, which was not long before a caterpillar itself feeding on such a leaf, emerging as an adult with its wing appearing like the damaged leaf. This is pretty twisted.
The modification on the head of this moth is extended to imitate the stem of a leaf.
A sphinx moth with multiple shades of deep green that blends perfectly on the branches of trees covered with moss, lichen and abundant epiphytes.
Another species of green sphinx moth
A small moth folded up looking just like wood. At the end of a small stick this insect is virtually invisible.
Just another dead leaf on the branch of this tree. Or is it?
Two moths in this photo
Quite striking but against the bark of a tree hard to notice.
Look carefully on this stick. If you cant find the insect look on the next picture below.
A walking stick totally camouflaged. This guy was found on the dead oak tree we harvested.
Same walking stick
Look carefully. This is an incredible example of cryptic coloration. The following image will reveal details of this katydid.
This katydid was found also on the dead oak we harvested.
We highlighted this katydid on a previous blog entry but he merits a return appearance! Whereas the previous katydid was more moss colored this one is more lichen like in its cryptic coloration and pattern.