Hair styles are a curious reflection of the culture in which they exist. Some are ornate and complex, with others being simple and, in some cases, completely “natural”.
The mane can be straight or wavy, long or short, and in a variety of shapes. Spikes, tufts, swirls and many other forms are displayed by the wearer.
There may even be a complete absence of locks. Only a bare pate appears where hair is to be expected.
In addition to shape and volume, there are an assortment of colors. Some blend into a gentle continuum of tone progression, and others create an obvious and harsh contrast.
The coiffure is one of the distinct features used to identify the species of caterpillars eating in panhandle Florida currently. In many cases their presence is directly related to the plant they are located on.
Mama moth or butterfly leaves the eggs on foliage where their progeny has the best chance for survival. Even with strong instincts, they do not want to walk far for food.
Hairy caterpillars are dining on plants, sometimes shrubs and vegetable gardens. Caution is advised as the hairdo is the only defense against predators with some species.
A few, armyworms for example, will eat almost any greenery. The name notwithstanding, they are really a caterpillar species, too.
It is worth noting that being a caterpillar is a transitional state. In a matter of days, the metamorphosis will result in adulthood and the final stage of this insect’s life.
Much like young people throughout history which have exaggerated hairdos as an assertion of identity, the evolution to maturity renders the tresses irrelevant as other priorities takeover.
Caution and restraint should be used when encountering the wild hair styles of the local larvae. Some have the potential for inflicting genuine pain and others irritation.
Being small, soft bodied, and plodding leaves this bug an easy target for hungry birds and other animals.
On “stinging” caterpillars the hairs or spikes are hollow tubes which contain a toxin. This resistance tool is useful for fending off predators by the very slow-moving caterpillars.
Birds and other animals quickly learn from experience that there are some caterpillars not worth the effort to pursue.
Pain is instantaneous when flesh, human or otherwise, comes into contact with this defense system. For most the experience is unpleasant, but sometimes more serious complications can develop.
Immediate medical treatment is advised.
The bald caterpillars are a threat to only the plants they eat. These insect vegetarians use stealth and guile to hide from predators, with many coming out after dark.
If a home vegetable garden or shrub is being chewed on, but no caterpillars are present, then return at night. Use a flashlight to check for activity.
Also, some caterpillars will glow in the luminosity of a blacklight.
Some of these insect larvae absorb and metabolize the plant’s compounds to produce a repulsive taste. Any creature sampling them as a meal option will very quickly decide to snack elsewhere.
Unfortunately, the larva giving the culinary lesson usually does not survive the experience.
Much like the human population, the extreme hairstyles of youth give way to mature and productive adult residents. Some become outstanding and showy examples while others blend into the background.
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