"LIFE CYCLE" of the IO MOTH

I raised this handsome guy from a baby and learned a lot about him as he grew.  As a caterpillar his defense mechanism is the fact that the pointed barbs on his body STING when touched.  A fascinating fact:  As an adult, they have no mouth parts.  In other words, they do NOT eat once they become a winged moth.  They live to love to live.  (This series is part of the "Life Cycles" Exhibit displayed in Children's Museum of Houston and San Antonio Children's Museum.)

EGGS

BARBS STING WHEN TOUCHED!

CUTE BELLY FRECKLES!

CLOSING LEAF WITH SILK TO MAKE COCOON FOR CHRYSALIS.

INSIDE EMPTY COCOON, SHOWING CHRYSALIS AND SHED FACE MASK.

SIDE VIEW OF CHUBBY LITTLE GUY JUST EMERGED.

COOL LARGE EYES AND FEATHERED ANTENNA.

VIEW WITH WINGS CLOSED.