Spicebush swallowtail or snake? This caterpillar's large eyespot helps it pass for a reptile—at least at first glance—to keep predators at bay. The stunning variety of Eastern U.S. caterpillars, from Samuel Jaffe & The Caterpillar Lab: bit.ly/2E0TGRk. | bioGraphic

The Swallowtail Caterpillar🐛 Swallowtail caterpillars are the larval stage of swallowtail butterflies, with nearly 600 different species worldwide. Swallowtail caterpillars come in various colours, including green, yellow, black, and brown, with some species displaying bright stripes. Some species have brightly coloured eyespots to mimic larger predators, deterring potential attackers. They possess scent glands called osmeterium, which emit an unpleasant odor when threatened. These caterpillars