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Common Mormon catterpillar

Papilio polytes

Photo by sunnyjosef
Published on Project Noah
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9.94526, 76.2512

Field Notes

Description:

This caterpillar closely mimics a snake head up-to the slit in the eyes. The red organ on the head (Osmeterium) is extended when disturbed as a defensive mechanism. It oozes a foul-smelling secretion containing terpenes. This extension also mimics the forked tongue of a snake.

Habitat:

This species prefers lime trees.

Reference Links:

Papilio polytes

Species ID Suggestions

Comments (10)
sunnyjosef
Thank you fini1... Yes, it is the caterpillar stage of Common Mormon butterfly.
Yasser
Incredible shots of a very fascinating caterpillar!
vivianpoma
awesome, beautiful photo, wonderful colors!
AnnvanWijgerden
Superb shots! And an amazingly well defended + lovely creature!

Spotted for Missions

Mission
2013 Best Wildlife Photo
Mission
National Geographic's Great Nature Project
Photographed
PublishedSeptember 2, 2013

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