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Processionary Caterpillar Nest Bag - Also known as Bag Shelter Moths, Boree Moths and Brown Tails. Numerous caterpillars all walk head to tail touching the caterpillar in front and following a thread of silk laid down by the caterpillar in front
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Processionary Caterpillar Nest Bag - Also known as Bag Shelter Moths, Boree Moths and Brown Tails. Numerous caterpillars all walk head to tail touching the caterpillar in front and following a thread of silk laid down by the caterpillar in front
DH-3351
Processionary Caterpillar Nest Bag - Also known as Bag Shelter / Boree / Brown Tails Moths
Near Anna's Reservoir, Northern Territory, Australia
Ochrogaster lunifer
Numerous caterpillars all walk head to tail touching the caterpillar in front and following a thread of silk laid down by the caterpillar in front. The hairs deter predators and if touched by humans induce intense irritation caused by poison glands at the base of each hair. Processions occur when they have totally defoliated a tree, usually an Acacia, and are looking for a fresh plant to eat or when they are seeking a suitable tree in which to build a bag and pupate. The silk from the bag was used by Australian aborigines as a protective dressing for wounds.
Don Hadden
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Media ID 1312164
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Caterpillar Caterpillars Colonies Colony Mass Masses Moth Moths Reproduction Pupate
Nature's Marching Band - The Processionary Caterpillar Parade!
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this snapshot from the heart of Australia, witness the mesmerizing sight of a Processionary Caterpillar Nest Bag in action! These tiny creatures, also known as Bag Shelter Moths or Brown Tails, have formed an enchanting procession where numerous caterpillars march head to tail. But wait, there's more! They're not just following each other blindly – they're connected by delicate threads of silk laid down by their leader. As if that weren't impressive enough, these fuzzy fellows boast a secret weapon against predators – their hairs! Each hair is armed with poison glands at its base, ensuring any unwanted attention is met with intense irritation. It's like having your very own built-in defense system! Processions like these occur when these hungry caterpillars have stripped a tree bare and are on the lookout for fresh foliage or a suitable spot to build their bag-like homes and pupate. Fun fact: Australian aborigines even used the silk from these bags as protective dressings for wounds! So next time you stumble upon one of nature's parades in your backyard or out exploring the wilds, take a moment to appreciate the intricate beauty and teamwork displayed by these Processionary Caterpillars. Just remember to admire them from afar – those cute little hairs can pack quite a punch!
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