Caterpillar Near Nest (IMAGE)

Ecological Society of America

Caterpillar Near Nest

Caption

During the night, this caterpillar (Oxytenis modestia) moved onto and began feeding on a leaf directly above the nest of a rufous-tailed hummingbird (Amazilia tzacatl), whose comings and goings disturbed the caterpillar, causing it to expand and reveal its "eyes" and rear up into its snake-mimic posture.

Credit

Photo courtesy of James Marden.

Usage Restrictions

Photo courtesy of James Marden.

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.