Caterpillars have evolved over millions of years to defend themselves against predators. Over those years of evolution, the insect larvae have split into different geneses that sport vibrant colors, mesmerizing shapes and sharp thorns of distinctive tints and sizes.
Learn more about the diverse venomous caterpillars worldwide and their tactics to survive from attacking predators.
Are Caterpillars Poisonous?
While some caterpillars don't show spikes at all, they advertise their toxicity with their stripes and shades. A prime example is the Monarch caterpillar, which sports stripes interchanging between yellow, white, and black.
"They're advertising that they're Clint Eastwood. That they're badasses, and they know it. Obviously, they want to be seen and they want you to know that they're there because they're chemically protected," says David Wagner, an entomologist at the University of Connecticut.
