When we think of creatures that survive the winter, we might picture hibernating bears or squirrels searching for food they buried in the fall. However, even tiny insects are devising ways to survive the harsh winter and welcome spring in their own unique forms.

At Inokashira Park Zoo, animals that are overwintering are currently on display in exhibit cases in the plaza in front of Main Gate.


Display cases in the plaza in front of Main Gate
Among them, the most popular is the larva of Llama winged moth. It lives in a gourd-shaped nest and drags the nest along tree trunks and other surfaces when it moves. People who see it for the first time all say the same thing, "Is that an insect!?" and are fascinated. We are delighted that it is attracting so much attention.


A nest of the larva of Llama broad-winged moth. There are caterpillar-shaped larvae inside.
All the insects on display, including Llama broad-winged moth, were collected in the "Creature Plaza." These are creatures that live in places familiar to everyone. Insects that can be observed in winter may seem a little plain and niche, but they hold a lot of charm and interest.

Even though it's the cold season, try looking for insects in the natural environment around you, such as in the soil where they are not exposed to the cold, on tree branches, trunks, and leaves, or under the bark of trees that can be peeled off without damage.

[Inokashira Park Zoo Zoo]

(January 9, 2015)