Probally just a common blue also a catapillar

[SHIRLEYKNOT]

This butterfly seems different to the common blues that I usually see at Hodbarrow nature reserve, Cumbria (taken today 22/8/06).
Also what does this common black and yellow catapillar turn into ?
Regards Shirley

[Dormouse]

Hi Shirley,

I think maybe you've put the wrong picture up re the caterpillar?

As for common yellow and black caterpillars the only one I know is the cinnabar moth which I'd love to see but never have despite the ragwort growing all round and in my garden!

DM

[Pete Eeles]

I think the butterfly may well be a Northern Brown Argus because:

1. It was taken in Cumbria, so it's unlikely to be a Brown Argus.

2. I can't see any trace of blue from the photos.

Yes - definitely Cinnabar larvae.

And, of course, the very large larva of the Drain moth (Sanitarium flushus), together with a couple of mammals!

Cheers,

- Pete

[SHIRLEYKNOT]

Big thank you Pete
Regards Shirley

[Dormouse]

Can't we see the caterpillar, or am I missing something

DM

[Pete Eeles]

I've highlighted the larvae here:



Cheers,

- Pete

[Dormouse]

Sorry Shirley; and thanks Pete; I was missing something!

So Pete, are they cinnabar moths or Drain moths; I got confused

DM

[Pete Eeles]

The Drain moth is the big black blob in the bottom-left corner

Cheers,

- Pete

[eccles]

I see Pete has been bitten by humerus subtlus
And this one is for Dormouse, taken last month on Bannerdown Common:

[eccles]

Further, on the ident of the butterfly, I would say the first one is a female common blue. The body has some blue fur and there's the inner spots on the forewing underside. If the northern brown argus follows its southern cousin then these spots will be missing. The second isn't clear enough to identify it but if it's the same individual then it's a common blue.
Edit: I've just checked the UKButterflies pages and there are some good examples of forewing undersides where the inner spots are missing.

[Pete Eeles]

Agreed.

Well spotted (no pun intended!).

Cheers,

- Pete

[Dave]

If those ferrets are alive, and I hope they are cos' they're brilliant pets!!, won't they actually try and eat a few of the Cinnabar Caterpillars. If they do isn't there the possibility that they may become a bit poorly??

[SHIRLEYKNOT]

Ferrets are very much alive. They just sleep outside in their large run when its very hot. (Photo was taken in June). I dont think they eat catapillars only whiskers with egg and ferret biscuits.
Regards Shirley

[Dormouse]

Forgive me; it's all to much for me to take in right now; I'll report back tomorrow evening. As long as Shirley has her answers (which I think she has ), I'm happy!

DM

But I hope Pete hasn't been bitten - he's going on holiday soon.....................

[Dormouse]

I get it now!!!!!!

2 questions though

- Are ferrets always white or are these special ones?

And at the risk of making myself look really dumb .......

Is that a moth on the black drain? I've already sussed that it being 'a drain moth ' is all part of the joke 'cause I bet even Pete can't id that one if is one at all!

Dormouse

[eccles]

I think Pete was identifying the drain itself as a moth. The thing on the right hand end of the black pipe looks to me like a bit of a dead flower from the ragwort that the cinnabar caterpillars were munching.

[SHIRLEYKNOT]

Ferret colours are usually Sable (similar to a polecat) Albino, Dark eyed white, Silver, Silver-mitt, and Sandy. Plus many variations such as Badger,Panda and Light silver.The photo is of a 4yr old hob which as been classed as a badger variation.
Regards Shirley