A while back I shared an interesting video in Flutter DYNASTY, and we made a joke that these caterpillars can maybe merge better than some drivers. xD
These are Pine Processionary caterpillars, and they seem to exhibit this strange behavior of forming a long trail when migrating to other areas to search for food.
Rich Laburn writes in a blog post that they seem to 'mimic the shape of a snake and hence deter predators from picking them off individually'.
These caterpillars produce and leave behind a trail of silk which allows latecomers to find and join the line. Trail marking also allows them to aggregate at feeding sites and later find their way back home.
If you do see these furry creatures marching across your lawn, it is best not to touch them! Do be aware that as an anti-predator defense, these caterpillars are highly irritating to the skin and can produce severe allergic reactions in adults and children. They can be fatal to pets too.
I guess the long time joke of the chicken crossing the road is too old school now! We should be asking why did the caterpillars cross the road instead lols! xD
Weird & Wilder is a mini series dedicated to exploring the strangest facts about moths and butterflies. Who would ever again think that moths are boring? Check out the entire series here!
Happy Starry Fluttering~! ♥
Cheers,
Night
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