A newly identified caterpillar species, known as the "bone collector," ingeniously hides from predators in a spider's lair by crafting a silk case decorated with the remains of insects. This clever disguise makes it resemble leftovers in the web, tricking spiders into ignoring it. Discovered by scientists from the University of Hawaii over two decades, the caterpillar exploits its unique living situation, growing to half an inch before becoming a moth. Its ability to access spider homes is unusual, showcasing an intriguing aspect of insect behavior and adaptation.
"One of the most elaborate cases was adorned with a weevil head, an ant head, spider legs, bits of fly wing and pieces of beetle wing and abdomen."
"No other caterpillar is stupid enough to live in a spider's web. Because spiders eat caterpillars."
"It has to decorate or die, because if they didn't decorate their case, the spider would probably think, 'Oh, this might be prey,' and start to try and attack them."
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