Beauty of transformation: From caterpillar to moth

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Among the big family of insects, there is a group that shares many similarities but not the same fame as butterflies – the moth.

People tend to think moths are dull compared to the catchy colors of the butterfly.

In fact, there are some moths that are striking in their appearance. We take a look at some of these insects – both before and after their transformation from caterpillar to moth.

Caterpillar on the flower. /VCG Photo

Oleander hawk-moth

The Oleander hawk-moth is native to Asia, Africa and southern Europe.

It migrates in summer, so these moths are pretty common.

The patterns on the wings of the oleander moth. /VCG Photo

The adult moth is large, with a wingspan of about 90-110 millimeters. Its wings have special patterns that function as camouflage, giving it a common nickname the "army green moth."

The caterpillar of Oleander hawk-moth. /VCG Photo

Like its adult, the caterpillar also has special patterns on body – a green body and two blue-and-white spots. Scientists say that the markings are a way to intimidate predators.

Cecropia silk moth

Cecropia silk moth. /VCG Photo

The Cecropia silk moth is the largest native moth in North America. Its wingspan is about 150 millimeter, large enough to cover the palm of an adult's hand.

The pattern on the moth's wings is distinctive. The major parts of its wings are brown with white edges and orange, red and white lines.

Cecropia silk moth with its wings closed. /VCG Photo

When a group of this moth gets together, the pattern mimics a beautiful tapestry.

The caterpillar of Cecropia silk moth has colorful bumps. /VCG Photo

The caterpillar of this moth has some peculiar bumps that look like girl's pigtails with colorful rubber bands. During the caterpillar's five instars, the colors of its body and these “pigtails” will change, until it finally makes a silk cocoon and waits to fly out of it.

Luna moth

Luna moth on the wall. /VCG Photo

Luna moths belongs to the giant silk moth family. Just as its name describes, it has a large wingspan of about 144 millimeters.

This moth has a pair of pale green wings, with a purple edges. This color combination makes it look like a graceful fairy while flying.

Pale green wings and curving tails of the luna moth. /VCG Photo

As a caterpillar, it has a lime green plump body, covered with several red dots and sparse hair.

The plump caterpillar of luna moth. /VCG Photo

Although these caterpillars and moths are lovely, some of them are still poisonous. Do not touch unless you are sure it is safe.

(Top image via VCG. Designed by CGTN's Yin Yating.)

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