Study finds day-old caterpillars can recognize a ladybug’s footsteps

Day-old caterpillars recognise the footsteps of predatory ladybirds, reveals study — A ladybeetle (Hippodamia convergens) approaching a warty birch caterpillar (Falcaria bilineata, enlarged in the inset top left) on a birch leaf. (Emilie Maudult via SWNS)

A ladybeetle (Hippodamia convergens) approaching a warty birch caterpillar (Falcaria bilineata, enlarged in the inset top left) on a birch leaf. (Emilie Maudult via SWNS)

By Stephen Beech

Day-old caterpillars one-twentieth the size of a grain of rice can recognize the footsteps of predatory ladybugs, reveals new research.

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