Time-Lapse Footage of a Giant Caterpillar Weaving Its Cocoon

For six weeks, luna moth caterpillars gorge themselves on the leaves of the marula tree. Then, when they're ready, they instinctively weave giant cocoons around themselves in preparation for their stunning metamorphosis.

From: AFRICA'S WILD HAVENS: Marula Tree

[jeanfernandez]

Great video, but I was disappointed that I didn't get to see the caterpillar evolve into a moth.

[mercenarygundam]

Congratulations, your Caterpie has evolved into a Metapod.

[shanedonahoo]

Man I wish that I could eat a crap ton of food, then take a long nap and wake up with wings.

[GizGaz]

Such a tease! I'd love too see more, I firmly believe education should be free! Please! Deliver longer or even complete video programs! That would be awesome! Thanks!

[sarahsanchez]

I have one of these building a cocoon on my back porch as we speak! I'm super excited, as this is my favorite insect. I intend to care for the cocoon and keep pests clear of it.

[EdwardStephensRealtor]

Imagine uploading this video and thinking it’s ok to not show a butterfly at the end

[JaesadaSrisuk]

It's so cute! Like a living gummy candy.

[atrl]

Well are u gonna show us the moth it turns into?? 😂😂

[Trampflick]

Good video, btw, thanks for taking off regional lock on videos, Smithsonian channel.

[Nothingtoseehere]

did anyone else find it satisfying to see te caterpillar eat the leaves?

[kyzendelaguia]

BREAKING NEWS: cute catapillar goes onmnomnom and makes cozy bed

[EVRLYNMedia]

This is very interesting! i learned a lot

[NebulaFrost]

I've seen a caterpillar transform OUTSIDE of its cacoon its FRIKIN creepy, but I still like caterpillars and moths 👍🏻

[basiIlll]

I captured a caterpillar yesterday just started wevaing its cocoon!

[NumeMoon]

All that and didn't even show the butterfly/moth it's gonna be.

[mepmaster]

*WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?! THROW THE POKEBALL AT IT!*

[NUSORCA]

Am I the only one that finds this disturbing

[ilywraith]

Caterpillars looks fucking disgusting. But this caterpillar looks fuckin adorable

[saturniidmoff]

That’s not a Luna moth caterpillar it’s and African moon moth pillar Argema mimosae not actias Luna. Come on smithsonian your supposed to be like smart and stuff. Also winter does not exist in Africa

[spicybeast]

That's my life summed up right there...