The Angled Sunbeam larva has an unusual defense mechanism. When it feels threatened, this larva extends two small, wiggling sprouts from its head. They look like dandelions, or little pom-poms.
This is the cutest defense mechanism I've seen. This curious adaptation works as a distraction to potential predators. Once activated, the defense mechanism gives the caterpillar a chance to escape.
The idea behind this mechanism is that the movement of the "pom-poms" can confuse or even scare off predators. It makes the larva appear more intimidating or harder to focus on. In the world of defense, sometimes being cute is a great strategy!
Previously:
• Larva chocolate
• Macro Timelapse of bee larva
• This tortoise beetle larva looks like a real life Pokemon
• Caddis fly larvae coaxed into building cocoons out of precious metals and gems
• Why do Mexican jumping beans jump?
