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Why would an animal wish to spend its life looking like a leaf or a twig?
For protection from predators! Hungry, sharp-eyed birds, lizards, monkeys, and even snakes can make a meal out of a large grasshopper or caterpillar. Species that blend in with their surroundings and avoid being noticed have an advantage that helps them survive.
Both camouflage and mimicry help insects elude would-be predators. A camouflaged insect has coloring that matches its background. This makes it difficult for a predator to see it. Mimicking insects copy a dangerous animal’s shape, coloring, sound, and movement. Confused predators are likely to mistake them for dangerous creatures and avoid them.
