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Puss Moth Larva, England, 1997

A puss moth larva disposes of its old skin (left) and head capsule (right) after molting on a leaf in England. These disarmingly colorful critters actually pack some potent weaponry. A gland on the moth's thorax sprays formic acid, and its upright rear appendages sport noxious, pink tentacles.

(Text adapted from and photo shot on assignment for, but not published in, "Moths Come to Light," March 1997, National Geographic magazine)

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Photograph by Darlyne Murawski