Cocoon images

A cocoon is a protective covering spun or constructed by certain types of animals during their larval or pupal stages, or as adults to protect their eggs. They protect the developing animal from predators and weather-related environmental conditions. Once the animal has metamorphosed inside, it will emerge as an adult ready to mate and reproduce. Discover the difference between a cocoon and a chrysalis What Animals Fashion Cocoons? A variety of animals, primarily insects, construct cocoons, typically during their larval stage. Moths There are over 160,000 species of moths worldwide. Their life cycles and behaviors vary widely depending on the specific species. However, the majority of moth species metamorphose into their adult forms inside cocoons. A silkworm moth emerging from its cocoon. ©Macronatura.es/Shutterstock.com Wasps Some species of parasitic wasps ( Braconidae produces ones that resemble grains of rice in shape and size, often elongated and tapered at one end. They may be white or pale in color. The cocoons of parasitic wasps are typically small, white, and papery. ©Pharisee Lee/Shutterstock.com Flea Cocoons Fleas ( Ctenocephalide) construct silken cocoons including the cat flea ( Ctenocephalides felis), the dog flea ( Ctenocephalides canis), and the human (house) flea ( Pulex irritans). The larvae of these flea species spin silken cocoons in which they pupate and develop into adult fleas. Particles of debris and the host’s fur often cover the cocoon which help...