Bristly Cutworm (Lacinipolia renigera)
The Bristly Cutworm (Lacinipolia renigera) moth is apparently also called the Kidney-spotted Minor. I suppose I can understand that. In this case it was called to the sheet by an ultraviolet light, allowing me to photograph it before disappearing the next time I checked on the moth activity. Every time we try any nocturnal surveying we end up with different results with the thousands of often little-known species we call moths. Scott Kruitbosch Conservation & Outreach Coordinator
Read MoreMelanin deposit – Timber Rattlesnake
Do you see the perceptible streak of blue along the right side of the head of this Timber Rattlesnake? That is a special shield for its venom and venom glands that can be found in both pit vipers like Crotalus horridus as well as true vipers. This melanin deposit helps to block visible and ultraviolet light from harming the internal systems and prevents detoxification of the venom itself. That is some advanced evolution!
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