This insect builds a silk-and-leaf house and carries it on its back

Imagine building a house around yourself and then carrying it wherever you go. That is what a bagworm caterpillar does. The small insect uses silk from its own body along with leaves, twigs and other material from its surroundings to make it a protective case.Bagworm moths are found in many parts of the world. According to NC State Extension Publications, during the caterpillar stage, they make their cases using silk produced by their bodies. Then they add pieces of material from their surroundings including leaves, twigs and other plant debris. This creates a small covering that grows along with the caterpillar.Some bagworms use tiny sticks and twigs, which can make their cases look like small log cabins. Because the caterpillar carries the case on its back, the insect can be difficult to notice.