The Caterpillar (Lepidoptera)
As we all know, caterpillars are basically eating machines. Their purpose is to feed and grow as fast as they can, so they can then undergo a complete metamorphosis into the beautiful butterfly or moth we so love.
The singing caterpillar is that of the Giant Swallowtail, here photographed on one of my citrus trees. Its main defense is that of camouflage – it is famously disguised by looking like bird poop. If the disguise fails and a predator detects it, it has a second defense mechanism (seen in the video): it pokes out dangerous-looking red structures and also releases a very stinky smell. It definitely freaked me out when I tried to grab it!
Jake Icardi voices the Caterpillar, as well as played the rhythm guitar. He was a founding member of The 502s, who were kind enough to invite me to play with them when they needed an accordion sound for their Americana music.
Lepidoptera Lyrics
and Song Sample
First Instar
Born on leaf one springtime morning,
Run about, my life is dawning.
Urgent sense of stomach churning,
Off to fill a mighty yearning.
Because I’m hungry!
My life has just begun,
I am so hungry!
No time for play or fun.
I feel the need on leaves to feed
that lie under the sun.
TIME TO MOLT!
Second Instar
More conspicuous, larger sized,
Birds and wasps and lizard’s eyes
To fool therefore camouflage.
Look but find only mirage.
And I’m still hungry!
Danger goes on and on
I am so hungry!
Watch out! or be undone.
I feel the need on leaves to feed
that lie under the sun.
MOLT AGAIN!
Third Instar
There’s a new song that I’m humming,
For I feel a change is coming.
I keep looking to the sky,
Pretty soon I’m going to fly!
But I’m still hungry!
No stem or bud I shun.
I am SO hungry!
Silk wrap that must be spun.
I feel the need on ALL to feed
that lie under the sun. _
COCOON!