What is it?


what is it?
The picture shows a close-up of a very strange caterpillar. It's a noctuid moth called a akebikonoha (Eudocima tyrannus). The caterpillar has large eyespots and holds its body in such a way that it could be mistaken for a snake's head. The adults are also masters of disguise - they look exactly like dead leaves (see photo here). I've seen the adults a few times but only after they've taken flight, showing their red/orange underwings (see photo here).
Eudocima tyrannus Eudocima tyrannus Eudocima tyrannus
Lepidoptera: Noctuidae
Eudocima tyrannus = akebikonoha

Date: 14 August 2007
Location: forest area near Ikeda Village in Munakata (aerial photo)
Map: Google map link
Copyright: NaturalJapan.net (2007)