Inchworms, with their distinctive looping movement, are often encountered in gardens. Providing temporary care for these small creatures allows for a closer look at their life cycle and behaviors. This guide provides practical steps to create a suitable environment for an inchworm you might find, ensuring its well-being before its eventual release back into nature.
Understanding What an Inchworm Is
Inchworms are not true worms but are the larval stage, or caterpillars, of moths belonging to the family Geometridae. They are also known as cankerworms, spanworms, or measuring worms due to their unique locomotion. Inchworms move by extending their front, then bringing their rear prolegs forward, creating a loop with their body before extending again, appearing to “measure” the surface. This distinctive movement results from having fewer prolegs in their middle section compared to other caterpillars. Inchworms are primarily herbivorous, feeding on foliage from various trees, shrubs, and garden plants like oaks, elms, maples, and fruit trees.
Setting Up an Inchworm Habitat
Creating a temporary home for an inchworm begins with selecting an appropriate container. A clear glass jar or plastic container works well for observation. Ensure proper ventilation by poking small holes in the lid, making sure they are small enough to prevent escape.
The habitat’s base should include a thin layer of substrate to maintain humidity and provide a natural feel. About an inch of clean soil, wood shavings, or a damp paper towel can be used. Incorporate fresh twigs or small branches from the plant where the inchworm was found, as these provide surfaces for climbing and resting. Place the habitat in a stable location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Providing Food and Water
Nutrition is important for an inchworm’s temporary care, as their diet is highly specific. Inchworms are often host-specific, feeding only on the plant type they were found on. Provide fresh leaves from the exact plant or tree where you discovered the inchworm. If the specific plant is unknown, offer a variety of leaves from common inchworm food sources like apple, oak, elm, mulberry, or various garden plants, observing which ones the inchworm prefers.
Replace fresh leaves daily or every other day to prevent mold and ensure freshness. Inchworms typically obtain most hydration from the moisture within the leaves. However, a light misting of the leaves inside the habitat once a day maintains humidity and provides additional moisture. Avoid directly spraying the inchworm, as this can cause stress.
Observing and Releasing Your Inchworm
Once the inchworm is settled, observe its behaviors, including its unique looping movement and feeding habits. You may notice it consuming leaves, growing, and periodically shedding its skin as it develops. Inchworms will eventually transition to their pupal stage, transforming into moths. This transformation might involve burrowing into the substrate or forming a protective cocoon, depending on the species.
The pupal stage can last several weeks or even months, especially if they overwinter. Once the inchworm has completed metamorphosis and emerged as a moth, or if you can no longer provide consistent care, release it responsibly. The ideal location for release is outdoors, preferably near where it was originally found. This ensures the moth can contribute to the local environment and complete its life cycle.