Cocoon started.

I was going to take the Io Moth to the White River Gardens today so that little Heimlich can creep amoungst friends. However, I went to look at him this morning and it looks like he is either dying or has started a cocoon in some leaves. He was crawling around a lot last night.

"COCOONS:

The cocoon is made from a dark, coarse silk and is not very sturdy. The dark brown, almost black pupa can easily be seen through the silk when the cocoon is held up to a light. Female moths and pupae tend to be much larger than males. Most larvae will leave the food plant to spin cocoons in litter on the ground. Some larvae will use a leaf wrap and the cocoons will fall to the ground with the autumn leaves."

Looks like he IS making a cocoon!! Joy!