Exploring the Processional Moths
Growing up before the era of the internet and modern technology, many of us fondly remember the game "Follow the Leader".
The real - life version of this game is played by some remarkable caterpillars. These creatures, known as Processional Moths, exhibit a captivating behavior that has piqued our interest.
The Procession of Caterpillars
Processional Moths, specifically their caterpillars, are often spotted in single - file lines crossing roads and pathways.
This head - to - tail procession can involve up to 600 caterpillars, creating a spectacle that’s hard to miss.
According to the "Field Guide to Insects of South Africa," these caterpillars belong to the family Thaumetopoeidae, which some consider a subfamily of Notodontidae.
The most common species in our region is the Reticulate Bagnet (Anaphe reticulata).
A Defensive Strategy
The caterpillars' gregarious behavior makes them more noticeable than the adult moths. They are quite hairy and form large groups to ward off predators and find food.
Feeding on a variety of plants, these caterpillars can strip a host tree of its leaves. Despite this, trees typically recover without long - term damage.
Seasonal Activity and Movement
These caterpillars are most active during colder months. During the day, they gather on the trunks of their food plants, which include Wild Pear Trees (Dombeya) and Horn - Pod Trees (Diplorrhynchus).
They move in trails created by silk laid down by the leader. This silk serves as a gripping mechanism for the followers rather than a navigational aid.
Pheromones and tactile signals from the caterpillars ahead help guide the procession.
Communal Living
When fully grown, these caterpillars pupate together, forming silken cocoons compacted within a tough outer envelope.
These structures, known as bagnets, can house up to 600 larvae. The silk in these bagnets is interwoven with larval body hairs, which offer protection against predators and curious animals.
Dogs, for instance, might end up at the vet if they pick up these irritating hairs on their paws and lick them off.
A Global Phenomenon
A similar species, the Pine Processionary Caterpillar, is found in the Northern Hemisphere and is particularly destructive to pines and cedars in Central Asia, North Africa, and southern Europe.
These caterpillars also exhibit the same fascinating procession behavior.
Nature’s Wonders
Nature is full of surprises, and there's always something new to learn if you take the time to observe. The processional moths’ larvae phase is a perfect example of nature's wonders. These caterpillars can often be seen crossing roads in long lines, migrating between feeding stations.
A Closer Look at Processional Moths
In the Lowveld, tree species like Dombeya, Sideroxylon (milkwood), and Diplorrhynchus are common host plants for these caterpillars.
Also known as Banded Bagnest Moths due to their communal cocoon spinning behavior, these moths create large bag - like nests in tree branches. These bagnests can vary in size, from small to as large as a rugby ball.
The Lifecycle and Impact
The moths have warning colors to deter predators, indicating they are not tasty. Once the moths lay their eggs, it takes about 45 days for them to hatch.
The caterpillars remain active for around 100 days before pupating, a stage that lasts about five and a half months.
The caterpillars start feeding on their first host plant and then move in single file to the next, following a silk thread laid by the leader.
Conclusion
These processions are most often seen during the colder months. If the line is disrupted, the caterpillars become disoriented until a new leader takes over.
While there are several species of Processionary Caterpillars worldwide, all are hairy as a defense mechanism against predators.
In South Africa, species like Anaphe reticulata have hairs that are not as toxic as those found in Europe, but it's still wise to avoid touching them.
About The Author
Kyle Grobler is a passionate environmentalist and esteemed field guide from Potchefstroom. With an unparalleled love for nature, he boasts a vast collection of over 40,000 photos, illustrating his particular affinity for birds.
Known by many as the embodiment of a true bushman, Kyle has ventured through various South African game reserves and frequently explores the Vaal River's hidden treasures. As a new contributor to the Potch Gazette's environmental page, readers can anticipate immersive tales of Potchefstroom's natural wonders through Kyle's expert lens.
To see more from Kyle and his bush experiences you can also view his Youtube Channel here: Kyle Grobler Photography
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