These critters have been everywhere this year. And yet I can't recall seeing them in prior years. They feed on greenbrier, a common plant around here. So you think I would have noticed them.
From small to large each install appears similar, helping to make them seem so abundant this year.
And they tend to be in loose groups, several in the same area but not gregarious (they are gregarious in the early instars, but I've not seen those). Helping to make them more noticeable. I would often spot one, stop to observe, and then notice several others.
The distinctive coloring and pattern helps too. It is likely defensive in two ways. First, there are eye-spots on both ends, perhaps confusing predators. Second the pattern may signal chemical defenses, warning of a unpleasant result should they be ingested.
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You can find all of the Yard Critter posts listed here.
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