Hungry Catepillars

Another stroll through a local state preserve led me here to find these crawlies. The path is sand and the treading it goes lightly. No loud steps, no breaking sticks or twigs. No fall leaves. I continue on, looking for the right opportunity to stop and spend some time on a subject. I come across low thin trees and I hear the sound of falling leaves. Like a dry leaf falling off and landing on the other dry leaves below it.

But there are no falling leaves. I stop to listen closely and watch carefully. When I realize what the sound could be. Dozens and maybe hundreds of these caterpillars feasting on the leaves. It is the only part of the path that has this audio change. Also the only part of the path with caterpillars. So I stop, listen and begin to shoot.

I was amazed by their color and hazardous looking design. I know that some caterpillars are poisonous. I also know that some are not and just look it to scare off potential predators. No sense in finding out whether these are poisonous or not. Also, it is my practice never to disturb. Only observe, capture through the lens, give my thanks and keep it moving.

It's always great working with a cooperative subject. Unlike the bee fly I was following just moments before this encounter! Slow and steady. Enjoy everyone and thanks for stopping by!