Insect Update: On return from Arizona I was surprised to find the azalea caterpillar moths (Datana major) still chowing down on the Formosa azalea. They are in their final instar, and the mass is becoming much less organized. Individuals are beginning to climb down the branches, where they will pupate and overwinter in the leaf litter at the base of the shrubs.

In this photo, the caterpillar is clinging to the central vein of a denuded leaf using only its prolegs, which act like suction cups. All six of its chitinous true legs (count ‘em!) are flung upward in a defensive posture. 

Please click the photo for an enlarged view. Other photos in the series showing their development can be viewed by clicking here, here, and here.