Why are so many leaves on this redbud tree folded in half? Take a closer look.
This is the work of a redbud leaffolder (Fascista cercerisella) caterpillar. The redbud leaffolder moth lays eggs on the redbud leaves. As the caterpillars begin to emerge, they need protection from predators. They use silk to make stitches across the leaves. As the silk dries, it contracts and folds the leaf over the caterpillar, creating a tent for the caterpillar to hide and eat. The caterpillars go through several growth stages. Every time they enter a new stage, they leave their tent, climb to a fresh leaf, and build a new tent.
Here is a look at the inside of one of these folded leaves. You can see two green caterpillars on the left. There might be a third, larger caterpillar on the right, with black and white stripes.
Stay curious!