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Going Green

© David A. Dawson

Going Green

Uploaded: January 22, 2010

Description

Spicebush swallowtail (Papillio troilus) caterpillar (5th instar).

This caterpillar goes through six stages (called instars) of development, shedding its skin between each stage. During the first four instars the spicebush swallowtail caterpillar is mostly brown with white splotches, resembling bird droppings. The fifth instar brings a dramatic change to this brilliantly colored stage. The big false eye spots make the caterpillar resemble a small snake; a natural defense for its main predators - birds.

Missouri, 7/26/08, Canon 100mm macro lens, 1/200 second, f/9, ISO 100.

Exif: F Number: 9, Exposure Bias Value: 0.00, ExposureTime: 1/200 seconds, Flash: did not fire, compulsory flash mode, ISO: 100, White balance: Auto white balance, FocalLength: 100.00 mm, Model: Canon EOS 20D

Comments

Karen Kessler January 22, 2010

Cool photo & title! Amazing detail & colors! #1229999

David A. Dawson January 22, 2010

Thanks Karen. I'm glad you enjoy the picture. I first saw a picture of one of these about four years ago, and it became a catalyst for me to learn much more about butterflies.
When I saw the picture I knew that I had to get my own pictures of this, and I learned all I could about the butterfly including where and when to find them. That led to my discovery of many other species.
I hope pictures like this will inspire others to learn more about our natural environment. #8322850

David Guzman January 23, 2010

One of the best images of a caterpillar that I have seen. Thanks for the info as well. I did not know most of what you wrote here. #8323996

David A. Dawson January 23, 2010

Thanks David,
I'm glad you like the photo and appreciated the information. I will try to post some more pictures of this interesting insect soon. For now, here is some more info for you: The only two host plants for the spicebush swallowtail are spicebush and sassafras trees. The caterpillar turns a golden yellow in the sixth instar, just before pupating. There is no green color in the adult, it is mostly black. #8324987

Christine Lobsinger level-classic January 24, 2010

Awwww... David, my favourite colour- GREEN!!

Gorgeous detailing/lighting/and of-course, green..

Neat information too...thank you!!

A great shot!!!

CHRISTINE
SMILING WITH YOU
PS I am having fun viewing your gallery...glad I found you! #8327001


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