Uncanny Animal Lookalikes

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Coral Snakes and Milk Snakes

"Red on yellow, deadly fellow; red on black, friendly Jack. Coral snakes have potent venom, while harmless milk snakes mimic their appearance. Batesian mimicry explained by H.W. Bates."

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Viceroy and monarch butterflies

"Müllerian mimicry: Viceroy and monarch butterflies resemble each other to deter predators. Fritz Müller's theory explained. Size and black line differentiate viceroy."

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Swallowtail caterpillars and snakes

"Snake mimicry: Spicebush swallowtail larva imitates green snake in pattern and behavior. Clever caterpillar raises body, mimics striking snake."

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"Drone flies mimic honey bees with one set of wings, short antennae, large eyes, and thin legs. Batesian mimicry fools observers from a distance."

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Honey bees and drone flies

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Glass lizards and snakes

"Glass lizards mimic snakes but are actually legless lizards with eyelids and ear openings. Florida kingsnake is a true snake. Similar yet distinct reptiles."

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Flatworms and sea slugs

"Flatworms mimic sea slugs but lack body cavities, respiratory organs, and circulatory systems. Sea slugs include diverse marine creatures like nudibranchs."

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Jumping spiders and ants

"Some jumping spiders mimic ants for protection. The spider in the photo (bottom right) engages in Batesian mimicry to avoid predators."

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Zone-tailed hawks and turkey vultures

Zone-tailed hawks mimic turkey vultures for camouflage and hunting advantage, often seen flying together. Aggressive mimicry in action.

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