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The Master of Mimicry: Meet 10 Best Impressionists of Nature

From leaf-like lizards to shape-shifting sea creatures, nature is full of master impressionists. Discover ten remarkable animals that use mimicry to survive, deceive predators, and blend seamlessly into their surroundings.

July 09, 2025 / 20:10 IST
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Leaf-Tailed Gecko: Found in Madagascar, this gecko blends perfectly with dead leaves, bark, and branches, making it nearly impossible to spot. (Image: Canva)

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Owl Butterfly: With giant eye spots on its wings, this butterfly mimics an owl’s stare to frighten off predators. (Image: Canva)

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Mimic Octopus: This cunning sea animal can disguise itself as lionfish, sea snakes, and flatfish by altering form and colour—deceiving predators and prey alike. (Image: Canva)

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Dead Leaf Mantis: As its wings fold, this moth looks much like a dry leaf that has been crumpled. It is almost impossible to notice on the forest floor. (Image: Canva)

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Orchid Mantis: Decked with pink and white petal-like arms, this mantis resembles a flower and entices unsuspecting insects right into its clutches. (Image: Canva)

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Green Tree Python: Curled along branches, this snake’s green body blends seamlessly with jungle vines and leaves, making it nearly invisible. (Image: Canva)

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Common Baron Caterpillar: This caterpillar mimics a mango leaf so well that it’s almost impossible to tell the two apart. (Image: Canva)

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Lyrebird: Not just visual mimicry—this Australian bird can imitate chainsaws, camera shutters, and other birds with stunning accuracy. (Image: Canva)

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Stick Insect: True to its name, this insect looks just like a twig or branch, swaying in the breeze to complete the illusion. (Image: Canva)

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Scarce Swallowtail Caterpillar: This clever caterpillar mimics bird droppings in its early stages, making predators avoid it entirely due to its unappetising disguise. (Image: Canva)