Locusts and other grasshoppers have powerful muscles for jumping. Their exoskeletons have evolved large femurs to accommodate their muscular build.

This locust’s bright-red hindwings become visible in flight. As it takes off, the sudden flash of vivid color may startle potential predators, helping it escape.

“The hindwings of a male comet moth are much longer and thinner than a female’s. This feature, as well as the structure of the antennae, can be used to tell males and females apart.”

These white, semicircular shapes mimic the glint of light reflected by animal eyes. They reflect full-spectrum light, including ultraviolet (UV)—so they may even trick animals such as birds that detect UV light.

Yes, this male moth is missing its abdomen. Male comet moths contain oily scent glands, and some collectors discard the abdomens to avoid stains or smells. Or, the abdomen may simply have broken off this fragile specimen.

“These tiny scales are actually modified setae, the same kinds of structures as the ‘hairs’ on the moth’s main body and middle wing edges.”

These special "hairs," called setae, serve several purposes. On the moth’s core body, they help insulate the insect, conserving warmth in the cold and dispersing heat when temperatures rise.

“Male moths’ antennae are broad, feather-like structures. Covered in sense organs, they can detect even tiny quantities of female pheromones, the chemicals produced by moths to attract mates.”