While this creature bears a striking resemblance to “The Donald’s” unmistakable hair, it is actually the four-inch larval stage of the Flannel Moth. When I first spotted it, the golden, windswept “hairstyle” immediately caught my attention — it’s hard not to smile at the comparison. But despite its comical appearance, this caterpillar is something you definitely don’t want to touch.
Much like Mr. Trump’s famous coiffure, you wouldn’t dare run your fingers through this caterpillar’s golden locks. What looks like soft, silky hair is actually a dense covering of hollow venomous spines, known as setae. Each spine is capable of delivering a surprisingly potent sting. In fact, many people describe contact with this caterpillar as one of the most intense pains of their life — far beyond what you’d expect from such a fluffy-looking creature.
Photography often gives us a chance to appreciate the strange and surprising designs found in nature, and this species is a perfect example. Underneath its humorous resemblance lies a remarkable survival adaptation: camouflage, mimicry, and defense all wrapped into one eye-catching package.
Good Luck and Good Light!
Steve
Image: Flannel Moth Larvae, Tambopata Reserve, Peru