throughmirrorA different way of seeing
A green giant leaf insect among foliage, with a broad leaf-like body, lobed legs and a small head at the upper right.
Look closely. Let the image settle.
Animal camouflage / Natural adaptation

Leaf Insect — A Leaf with Legs

A flattened body and leaf-like legs make an insect resemble part of a plant.

TRY THIS

Find the head at the upper right, then follow the legs. Look for the boundary where an apparent leaf becomes the insect’s body.

FOLLOW THE SOURCES

History, evidence & image credit

THE IMAGE IN THIS ARCHIVE

Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE

Original file & attribution · CC BY-SA 2.0

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Frequently asked questions

What is Leaf Insect — A Leaf with Legs?

A flattened body and leaf-like legs make an insect resemble part of a plant.

What should I look for in Leaf Insect — A Leaf with Legs?

Find the head at the upper right, then follow the legs. Look for the boundary where an apparent leaf becomes the insect’s body.

What explains Leaf Insect — A Leaf with Legs?

This disguise combines green background matching with resemblance to an ordinary leaf. Broad body and leg surfaces, irregular margins and markings make the animal harder to recognise as prey. Stillness helps; swaying movement can resemble a leaf moving in the wind.

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A green giant leaf insect among foliage, with a broad leaf-like body, lobed legs and a small head at the upper right.

Leaf Insect — A Leaf with Legs