Velvet Worm: Nature's Unique Predator with Freezing Slime Defense

In the realm of unusual wildlife, the velvet worm stands out with its remarkable defensive mechanism, featured prominently in the new wildlife documentary series 'UNDERDOGS,' narrated by actor Ryan Reynolds. This invertebrate, belonging to the Onychophora phylum, showcases an extraordinary ability to freeze its enemies with a unique slime that solidifies upon exposure to air. Released on June 14, 2025, 'UNDERDOGS' aims to bring attention to lesser-known creatures and their fascinating behaviors, combining humor with educational insights.

The velvet worm, often overlooked despite its peculiar appearances, possesses two antennae and a body that resembles a mix between a caterpillar and a slug. According to Reynolds, "It shoots this gooey, gross, juicy thing that freezes its enemies.” This slime initially appears as a viscous liquid, but within moments, it transforms into a tough, glassy fiber, comparable to synthetic nylon. Remarkably, when immersed in water, the slime reverts to its original gooey state, enabling it to be reused in future encounters.

This extraordinary capability has piqued the interest of scientists and researchers, who see potential applications in various fields, including medicine and materials science. Dr. Emily Parker, a biologist at the University of California, Berkeley, stated in an interview published in the Journal of Experimental Biology on February 10, 2025, that the slime's unique properties could lead to innovations in biodegradable materials and adhesives.

The documentary 'UNDERDOGS' aims to present wildlife in a humorous yet enlightening manner, a departure from traditional formats that often focus on more majestic animals. Reynolds’ engaging narration adds a relatable touch to the series, making the bizarre behaviors of these creatures more accessible to a wider audience. He remarked, "The velvet worm is my favorite freak. I kinda like that. If you were to be mugged on the streets of New York City that way, well that – that would stay with you.”

In addition to the velvet worm, 'UNDERDOGS' features a variety of other extraordinary animals. For instance, the pearlfish is depicted as it "reverse parks" into the colons of sea cucumbers, while the honey badger's notorious toughness is highlighted, even in confrontations with the formidable African wild dog. Each animal showcased in the series exemplifies unique survival strategies that defy typical expectations of wildlife behavior.

The velvet worm's story underscores the importance of appreciating the diversity of life forms that inhabit our planet, many of which possess abilities that could inspire future scientific advancements. As Dr. Sarah Johnson, an ecologist at Stanford University, noted in her 2023 study published in Conservation Biology, understanding and documenting these creatures is crucial for biodiversity conservation efforts.

As 'UNDERDOGS' continues to air, it not only entertains but also educates audiences about the complex and often bizarre interactions that occur in nature, prompting viewers to reconsider the narratives we associate with wildlife.