Using flower petals for camouflage

Evolution equips caterpillars of butterflies and moths with numerous ways to evade detection by predators. Some species conspicuously display bright colors and patterns to advertise that they are dangerous or poisonous to eat while other species exhibit patterns that provide camouflage. In either case, the larvae are naturally endowed with appropriate apparel to protect them from harm. Caterpillars of the South Emerald Moth, however, cover themselves. In this video we show several larvae eating flower petals and, most intriguingly, snipping off petals that they adhere to their body.