Silk Moth

• Silk moths, also known as silkworms, are remarkable insects that produce silk. They are the larval stage of silk-producing moths. Kids might be fascinated to learn that silkworms are not actually worms but caterpillars.
• Silkworms have a special gland called the “spinneret” that produces silk. They use their spinnerets to spin silk threads around themselves, creating a protective cocoon. This cocoon serves as a shelter where they undergo the transformation into a moth. The silk produced by silkworms is incredibly strong and has been used for thousands of years to make fabrics.
• The life cycle of a silk moth is quite fascinating. Silkworms go through four stages of development: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (cocoon), and adult (moth). Kids can observe this transformation by raising silkworms and watching them grow, spin their cocoons, and eventually emerge as moths.

Bonus fact: Silk moths are not able to fly due to their large and heavy bodies. They have reduced wings and a reduced ability to eat because their main purpose as adults is to reproduce. The adult silk moth’s primary goal is to find a mate and lay eggs to continue the life cycle.