The hibernating Viceroy caterpillars have emerged! In a previous post I wrote about the earlier stages of their development. I took this series of photos of one of the same caterpillars over the last week. It is interesting that it still returns to the hibernaculum to rest since it has emerged. It has molted at least once since it emerged (they overwinter in their third instar [molt]), so it is in fifth instar by now.
You can see one of its old skins just above it.
It has turned a grayish-green color now, which means it is about to pupate.
Notice how this caterpillar resembles a twig or bird dropping. If that isn't enough, the willow leaves and other Salicaceae these caterpillars feed on contain salicylic acid, which makes these larvae bitter and distasteful to predators.
I'll be out of the country for the next ten days, but I hope to update you on its progress after I return. In the meantime, pending internet availability, I may post some pictures from the other side of the world.
Joseph
Previous post in this series: Viceroy Hibernacula: Something about butterflies for a change
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