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The Audubon Guide to Insects and Spiders (App) entry says the Polyphemus Moth often disguises itself as a dead leaf during the day to avoid predators. Here is the one I saw on Tuesday with wings out: https://www.flickr.com/photos/92981528@N08/14463359961/ Shortly after the above photo was taken it folded its wings over its back and let them flop to the side for the rest of the day: https://www.flickr.com/photos/92981528@N08/14463325261/ It does look a bit like dead leaf but what really makes this disguise effective is how it disengages its wings. Even the slightest breeze caused the pair to flutter to one side or the other as if they were not attached to a live animal at all. This was really interesting to watch as the gusts came in off the lake. How it relaxes the muscles so completely I do not know (?). But after watching some dead leaves flapping about in the wind (lots of both at the camp) the movement is a very good imitation. Nancy
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