100 More Species #38: Skiff moth

[urbpan]

Skiff moth Prolimacodes badia

It's nice to see the retro wood-paneling look come back. I find this to be yet another plain brown moth that is surprisingly attractive when you take the time to look at it closely. As with most of the other moths profiled this week, the common name refers to the larva. The skiff moth caterpillar is shaped like a boxy little boat, the upper side colored like a slightly damaged leaf. It glides along the leaf like a skiff on still water.

As with other slug caterpillars, caterpillar enthusiasts find it by examining the undersides of leaves. The skiff moth larva ventures on board the tops of leaves more often than others, probably due to its remarkable camouflage. Host plants include a wide range of trees and woody shrubs--apparently we should look on our blueberries for this one.



Video of skiff moth caterpillar moving.

Comments

[ursulav.livejournal.com]

So that's what those are called! I see 'em all over by the porch light.

[urbpan.livejournal.com]

Yep! Apparently more prevalent down south (in your yard etc.) than in my yard

[deathling.livejournal.com]

Loving the moth posts!

[perspicuity.livejournal.com]

http://www.zooborns.com/zooborns/2012/07/bald-is-beautiful-for-andean-condor-chicks.html

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