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- Discovery: A new carnivorous caterpillar, nicknamed the “bone collector,” has been discovered on Oahu, Hawaii.
- Unique Behavior: It constructs a protective case using the body parts (ant heads, fly wings) of its prey.
- Habitat: Found in a small, isolated mountain forest on Oahu.
- Diet: Feeds on insects trapped in spider webs, decorating its case with their remains.
- Camouflage: Scientists suspect the case may serve as camouflage, allowing it to steal prey from spiders.
- Rarity: Predatory caterpillars are extremely rare, and this species is even cannibalistic.
- Ancient Lineage: Its origins date back at least 6 million years, older than the Hawaiian islands.
- Vulnerable: Habitat is threatened by invasive species.
- Significance: First caterpillar to use ant heads and fly wings for case construction.