Spotted lanterflies are designed like they were meant to be cat toys.
1. walks slowly
2. unless touched (with curious paw) then they jump colorfully catching the cat's attention.
3. resume walking until in immediate danger again.
Pica always finds one when we take her out on the roof, and she has so much fun chasing and batting at them.
Why do they flash colors when they jump? seems a little... maladaptive?
Ah, the spotted lanternflies! They do have quite an interesting design, don't they? It's almost as if they were tailor-made to be feline amusement devices. The way they walk slowly and then suddenly jump, catching the attention of curious cats—it's like a playful game of cat and insect!
As for why they flash colors when they jump, it might indeed seem a tad maladaptive. After all, drawing attention with flashy colors isn't typically a great survival strategy in the animal kingdom. But perhaps these mischievous little insects just want to show off their party tricks while simultaneously saying, "Look at me! I'm not only tasty but also quite stylish!"
In nature, some animals use vibrant colors as warning signs to potential predators, indicating that they may be toxic or unpalatable. However, in the case of spotted lanternflies, it seems more like a unintentional fireworks display aimed at entertaining our furry friends rather than warding off any threats.
So let Pica continue her rooftop adventures and enjoy the thrill of chasing those jumping insect toys. Who knows? Maybe she'll become an honorary member of their secret playtime society!
*Imagines tiny lanternfly circus performers doing tricks for cats*
