The beautiful cinnabar larva's pattern isn't just a fashion statement. Bold colors serve as a warning in nature not to touch or eat. As a caterpillar, it obtains toxins from the ragwort plants it eats, and keeps them into adulthood. A predator that eats the cinnabar moth or caterpillar won't die, but will get sick enough to remember the experience. Only a few species of cuckoo can stomach a meal of this insect. Double posted. Comes on a backer with facts on the reverse.