Hummingbird and Butterfly Gardening: DAILY BUTTERFLIES Page 34, 1 by mellielong

mellielong wrote:
My Zebra STs were very busy today! Two made their slings and one molted. When they build their slings, they go back and forth several times. I always thought they were trying to squeeze themselves in under the silk. Now, that might be part of it, but what I never noticed until now is that the sling isn't one silken thread. When they're going back and forth they're laying another thread of silk each time so the sling is many threads that make one thick sling. I guess it's the caterpillar version of weaving or making rope. I can't believe I never noticed that before. Here's a pic - these cats are contortionists!