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Animal Qualities

Startle

Flare, then run.

Animals grouped here express a similar quality through their behavior in nature. Each species still has its own principle, lesson, meaning, and field-guide page.

3 species

Frilled Lizard (Chlamydosaurus kingii) thumbnail image on AnimalDex

Frilled Lizard

Species principle: Startle Display

Flare, then run.

A sudden shape can create the space needed to survive.

Frilled Lizards extend a large neck frill, open the mouth, and may rear up when threatened before fleeing, often to a tree.

Owl Butterfly (Caligo memnon) thumbnail image on AnimalDex

Owl Butterfly

Species principle: False Gaze

Flash the owl-eyes.

A painted eye can buy the second needed to live.

Owl Butterflies have large eyespots on their wings that can startle, confuse, or deter predators by resembling the eyes of a larger animal.

Polyphemus Moth (Antheraea polyphemus) thumbnail image on AnimalDex

Polyphemus Moth

Species principle: Eyespot Warning

Unfold the giant eyes.

A single bold signal can interrupt danger long enough to live.

Polyphemus Moths have large eyespots on the hindwings that are revealed when wings open, startling or distracting predators.

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