Some creep munching gum leaves (12)

I believe the answer is:

caterpillars

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'leaves' is the definition.
The definition and answer can be both man-made objects as well as being plural nouns.
Maybe they are linked in a way I don't understand?

I can't explain the rest of the clue.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for caterpillars that I've seen is " Moth larvae".)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.

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