By Doyle Irvin, American Forests
These forest-dwellers have mastered the art of blending in, relying on stealth to survive — or to hunt. Here are seven examples of master spies from every corner of the planet.
Knobbly Crab Spider
The knobbly crab spider lives on the east coast of Australia. They nest inside dead tree branches and are described as slow moving and relatively timid.The knobbly crab spider lives on the East coast of Australia. They nest inside dead tree branches and are described as slow moving and relatively timid.
Dead Leaf Mantis
Potoo
The potoo ranges from Argentina to Mexico, and spends all day lounging in camouflage before they hunt insects at night! These monogamous flyers lay a single spotted egg when reproducing.
Baron Caterpillar
The common baron caterpillar is one of the best camouflagers around. Before it becomes a more distinctive butterfly, they blend into the background in Indian and Southeast Asian forests.
Great Horned Owl
Great horned owls are native to the Americas and are incredibly good at camouflage.