March 2010

Female Emperor Moth

A female Emperor Moth emerged from the pupa of one of the caterpillars reared by the children of St Marks Primary School as part of last summers science  life cycle study. Despite keeping it in a cool environment it has emerged two weeks earlier than any previous Marsland flight record. This poses a problem with finding it a partner. She will be placed in a net outside just in case there is a male about . Attempts will also be made to encourage a male to emerge from the reared pupae by increasing the  temperatures.

Burnet Moth larva

Several 5mm Burnet moth caterpillars found on the cliff path at Duckpool. We’re not certain whether they are Five-spot or Six-spot Burnets. Both species are common later in the year on this stretch of coastline. Also found were Drinker and Fox Moth caterpillars.

Twin-spotted Quakers

Early catches of Twin-spotted Quaker give the unscientific impression of an unusually high degree in colour variation in the garden this year with a higher proportion of pale forms than normal. It will be interesting to see if this is being repeated across the country.