mothman
Well-known member
Now that the Blackthorn is in flower,why not try beating for Sloe Pug(Pasiphilla chloerata) larvae,These tiny maggoty caterpillars beat readily from the upper branches of blackthorn and can be raised in cages to pupae, in aprox four weeks(provide loose litter for them to use,the pupae will be on or near the surface) ,The reason for their rapid development is their food(Blackthorn flowers)which are only about for a few weeks.The moths emerge in may,just three or four weeks after pupation making this species a doddle to rear.
Also(with the risk of teaching collective grandmothers to suck collective eggs)don't forget Sallowing,which is the practice of stalking sallow bushes and trees(now in flower)with a high powered lamp and a butterfly net(the latter is optional).Some nights Sallow blossom looks more popular with moths at this time of year, than Buddleia does with butterflies in the high summer.
Colin.
Also(with the risk of teaching collective grandmothers to suck collective eggs)don't forget Sallowing,which is the practice of stalking sallow bushes and trees(now in flower)with a high powered lamp and a butterfly net(the latter is optional).Some nights Sallow blossom looks more popular with moths at this time of year, than Buddleia does with butterflies in the high summer.
Colin.