A few years ago, I took a picture of a bug that was munching on a wax myrtle leaf (M. cerifera). I dont believe Ive every seen one like it and wondered if anyone could ID it. I was able to get a 7 handheld stack on one shot (1st image) but the remaining were snapshots as the bug started moving away. Pictures were taken with Canon ef 180mm macro and 1DM4.
Thanks
Bug ID Needed
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Re: Bug ID Needed
I'm thinking maybe some kind of slug caterpillar, similar but not identical to https://bugguide.net/node/view/958895/bgimage .
I assume the pattern is some sort of mimicry. It reminds me of some swallowtail caterpillars that are thought to mimic bird droppings.
--Rik
I assume the pattern is some sort of mimicry. It reminds me of some swallowtail caterpillars that are thought to mimic bird droppings.
--Rik
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Re: Bug ID Needed
I have red-spotted purple images of larva and adults. I'll pull them out and post but it's not that one. I googled "bugs that mimic bird poop" and was amazed at the diversity. Didnt see it. But it does resemble that mimic.
It is similar to the slug moth larva, genus Tortricidia.
It is similar to the slug moth larva, genus Tortricidia.
Re: Bug ID Needed
I would guess skiff moth-Prolimacodes badia.
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Re: Bug ID Needed
That does look pretty close and the article mention a wide variation in color ..https://www.natureblog.org/two-late-larvae/
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Re: Bug ID Needed
I'd say the skiff moth larva is most likely. Odd little thing!
Mark Sturtevant
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Re: Bug ID Needed
I came across one of these things some years back and I had no idea of what it was either other than a pupa of sorts. Your ID appears to be correct. Thank you!MarkSturtevant wrote: ↑Tue Jan 31, 2023 4:23 pmI'd say the skiff moth larva is most likely. Odd little thing!