Insect and Spider Identification: CLOSED: Another "critter caper" - Elementary, dear Watson?, 1 by spaceman_spiff

spaceman_spiff wrote:
Saw a big leaf CHOMPED off my Datura metel and immediately knew the game was afoot!

Checked around until I saw another partially chomped leaf and knew the scoundrel's secret lair must be in the vicinity. Sure enough! Just before I squashed him with a stick (how DARE he chomp on my Datura!), I found myself fascinated not only by his size (ewww!), but by his sheer determination to hold onto the spine of the leaf he'd already half-chomped. (little bugger's got some serious "hooks" for feet with which to grip his feast!)

Curiosity soon got the better of me and I found myself mesmerized by him for the next few minutes. After I took a few photographs of him for evidence, I decided to grant the criminal a stay of execution. I've temporarily confined him in a holding cell (plastic water bottle) with a few punched-in air holes, a couple of sticks, and the remainder of the Datura leaf he was oh-so-boldly chomping on when I uncovered his dirty scheme.

So, Watson, what manner of criminal critter is this? After his metamorphosis will he be a glorious winged phoenix rising from the mulch? Or is he a pale moth in butterfly's clothing, waiting to take wing one dark and dreary night? But more importantly, is he worthy of a reprieve? Or shall I introduce him to the bottom of my shoe?

Quickly, Watson! Time is fleeting!

(Thanks).