Originally I suspected it was an Angle Shades but due to the smaller than usual size for this species and the fact it hasn't overwintered as a larva I'm quietly confident it's the smaller cousin - Small Angle Shades. It's a rare species for me with not using a light trap so looking forward to the adult which should be out early next week.
Final instar - 30mm long
The pupa this morning
Bang on time the adult emerged on Tuesday morning. A quick record shot in the early morning gloom suggested this was a rather dull looking moth....
But another shot taken later that morning in more flattering light shows off all the intricate patterns and colours that so many moths have but which go largely unnoticed.
Just need a few million of them now to keep that Himalayan Balsam under control.
Thanks to Julian for finding the larva in the first place!
Thanks for the share. These are some great photos. Do you see different kinds of caterpillar often on your travels? Please keep us up to date with new pictures and information. Have a great day.
ReplyDeleteWorld of Animals
Great post Charlie, and your photos spot-on.
ReplyDeleteI remember this little fellow, found by the stream near Bradshaw. Has it emerged yet? What is the normal food plant? I guess they have have at least two generations per year.
ReplyDeleteHi all,
ReplyDeleteIt emerged a couple of days ago - what a little stunner :-)
The larva is one of the few to feed on bracken and other ferns, but will also feed on a variety of herbaceous plants and shrubs, including birch and sallow.
Thanks Charlie, glad it survived the winter. Fascinating!
ReplyDeleteSo is it Small Angleshades?
ReplyDeleteIt certainly is Steve. Despite its name and similar resting position with crumpled wings its not even in the same genus as Angle Shades.
ReplyDeleteBrilliant!
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