Another caterpillar from France

[Chris Jackson]

Hi Folks,
I saw this cat yesterday in the South of France on Blackthorn (Prunus spinosa) while looking for Brown Hairstreak eggs.
Any ideas ?
I didn't see a nest of cats nearby. It was all on its own.

Context:

Thanks,
Chris

NB. Lasiocampidae something ?

Is it Oak eggar ?

I think I've answered my own question.

[Charles Nicol]

here is a picture of L quercus from Yorkshire:

http://whitbynaturalists.co.uk/forum/ga ... 45_29.jpeg

[Chris Jackson]

Thanks for the photo Charles.
My cat looks a bit different but it could be at a different stage.
Chris

[downland boy]

Yes, that is an early instar Oak Eggar larva...they overwinter in this stage. DB

[Chris Jackson]

Yes, that is an early instar Oak Eggar larva...they overwinter in this stage. DB

Thanks Downland Boy.
Chris

[David M]

Great find, Chris. All you need now is to photograph the adult at rest!!!

This moth (certainly the male) never seems to take a break. I've seen dozens over the years in flight and one day I hope to see one come to ground!

[Essex Bertie]

It would be interesting to know whether the Yorkshire cat photo was taken at this time of year. This would demonstrate the 2-year overwintering cycle that is supposed to occur in the North. The adults emerging earlier than in the South, somewhat counter-intuitively

[Charles Nicol]

Great find, Chris. All you need now is to photograph the adult at rest!!!

This moth (certainly the male) never seems to take a break. I've seen dozens over the years in flight and one day I hope to see one come to ground!

here is what to look for:

( this one is from Aude France, but i have also photographed one in my hedge in Huntingdon Angleterre )

[Chris Jackson]

Thank you David, Essex and Charles.

I will keep my eyes peeled when the weather improves.

I am currently in Leicester visiting family as I write, and the mini beast from the east is blowing a blizzard across the garden.
Some birds, squirrels and foxes have been seen in the garden though:

[David M]

...here is what to look for:

Grrr! Chance would be a fine thing, Charles!

I suspect going out on a cool day might be ideal as these things will not be grounded when the weather is set fair.