Clicking

Pronunciation
/KLIK-ing/
Category
Behavior

Definition

A defensive sound produced by some caterpillars, typically described as 'clicking', 'squeaking', or 'crackling', originating from the mandibles.

Etymology

From the onomatopoeic nature of the sound.

Example

Caterpillars of hawk moths and some other species produce clicking sounds when disturbed as a defense mechanism.

Related Terms

  • Defense
  • Startle
  • Warning