A 'Moth Night' was held at St. Catherine's in late July. Among other species the rare netted carpet Moth was seen.
An excellent image of the moth seen on its food plant... Touch-Me-Not Balsam....courtesy of Guy Broome.
The moth lays its eggs on the plant, during its life span, in July and August.
Image of the moth's caterpillar/larvae photographed during the annual survey that takes place in late August or early September. This caterpillar is probably fully grown and ready to pupate soon.
In this instance the caterpillar is forming a triangle between the plant stem and leaf. The caterpillars invariably face 'down hill'... particularly when at rest.
An image of a smaller caterpillar. The caterpillars out-grow and shed their skin 5 times...called instars...before they reach full size.
The above image shows a caterpillar feeding on a Touch-Me-Not seed pod...the most nutritious part of its food plant.
Note how well camouflaged the caterpillars are, making it difficult for predators and surveyors alike to spot them!
Up to 50 caterpillars per 100 plants were recorded in some areas whereas in less densely populated areas only 1 or 2 were found per 100 plants.
For more information on the moth and its food plant, including the conservation work involved, please click on the link below.
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