Moth larvae survive predators through a variety of adaptations that help them avoid detection, deter attacks, or physically defend themselves:

• Camouflage and Postural Camouflage: Many moth larvae blend in with their environment by matching the color and pattern of leaves, twigs, or bark, making them difficult for predators to spot. Some species, like the American peppered moth larvae, adopt specific twig-like postures that enhance their masquerade, causing predators to mistake them for plant parts and delaying attacks

• Mimicry: Certain larvae mimic more dangerous or unpalatable animals to scare off predators. For example, hawkmoth larvae can swell their abdomens to resemble green parrot snakes, deterring potential threats

• Chemical Defenses: Some larvae produce toxic or foul-tasting substances that repel predators. These chemical defenses can include secretions that cause predators to hesitate or learn to avoid them in the future

• Physical Defenses: Many caterpillars have spines, hairs, or urticating hairs that can irritate or harm predators, acting as a physical barrier. These structures can also be incorporated into cocoons to protect pupae from predation

• Behavioral Defenses: When threatened, some larvae exhibit behaviors such as thrashing, regurgitating, or playing dead to discourage predators

These combined strategies increase the larvae's chances of surviving predation until they can mature into adult moths