What Do Inchworms Turn Into? [Life Cycle]

Did you know "inchworms" like this one are actually caterpillars? After they've eaten their fill and pupate (make a pupa or cocoon), they emerge as moths from the family Geometridae. Because the caterpillars only have legs in the front and back, they appear to measure as they move. What's the most interesting bug you've ever found in the Smokies? Video by: Allison Bate Video Description: A small inchworm inching its way across the top of a wooden fence | Great Smoky Mountains National Park

Explaining Insects 🦋 on Instagram: "Inchworms are the larvae of geometer moths, famous for the way they move by arching their bodies into a loop, then stretching forward—giving the impression they are “measuring” the ground inch by inch. They have fewer middle legs than most caterpillars, which forces this distinctive looping motion. Inchworms are usually green or brown, helping them blend perfectly with leaves and twigs to avoid predators. They feed mainly on leaves, and while most species cau

Explaining Insects 🦋 on Instagram: "The inchworm is a small, green or brown caterpillar known for its unique way of moving — it appears to “measure” the ground as it goes. Instead of crawling smoothly like most caterpillars, the inchworm loops its body: it brings its back end forward to meet its front legs, forming an arch, then stretches out again. This gives it the nickname “measuring worm.” Inchworms are the larvae of geometer moths, and their looping motion inspired the Greek name geometra,