My husband and I got the best laugh at this caterpillar. I told him it was stinky. Being a male, he suggested it might have gas. He phrased it a little differently. LOL!
When I looked the caterpillar up, I found out it's a Black Swallowtail caterpillar. In the description, it says when they are threatened, orange tentacles appear behind its head and it releases a foul odor. I didn't see the tentacles the first time, so of course I had to disturb it again to see them. It's a smelly little guy, when you bother it! :0)
The Monarch caterpillar is still munching on the milkweed. The lovely chrysalis hasn't opened yet. I'll keep you updated.
Thank you so much for your views and kind comments! My Mother is thrilled that her sunflower has been on the PP. :0)
I have another perspective of this caterpillar for my other album. If you have time, take a peek.
Gorgeous shot. I've had experience of those tentacles; the orchard swallowtail caterpillars here do the same thing but not sure about the odour. They look like little aliens when the tentacles come up.
:-) Love your updates and so enjoying getting to know the insects inhabiting your backyard. You're now part of my morning coffee routine Caroline. Gorgeous capture!
@specky Thank you! I have wondered how many I have missed, while I was looking up for butterflies. LOL! I have found 4 different kinds in the past few days. :0)
nice focus Carolyn! I wonder what kind of butterfly it would turn out. I never seen a caterpillar like this here in our place. what I usually see is the solid apple green colored caterpillar.Ü
