Peacock Larvae

m_galathea · Post by **m_galathea** » Mon Aug 27, 2007 8:37 pm

I found a couple of Peacock larvae today, one running through grass, and another on Marsh-mallow. Does anyone know if they are usually found this late in the year? - the species page suggests otherwise.

Many Thanks
Alexander

Post by **Pete Eeles** » Mon Aug 27, 2007 8:56 pm

If they are Peacock larvae - they're very very late! I'm unaware of any second-brood Peacocks being reported.

Do you have a photo Alexander? The behaviour and habitat sounds rather unusual to me - I've never seen a larva in grass, or on mallow - given that they feed on stinging nettle. Was there the remains of a larval web nearby?

Cheers,

- Pete

m_galathea · Post by **m_galathea** » Tue Aug 28, 2007 11:10 am

Yes I have some photographs. I hope I have the ID correct - it's the first time I've found them. I didn't see any foodwebs, but there were nettles about 4 metres away.

Cheers
Alexander

Post by **Pete Eeles** » Tue Aug 28, 2007 7:37 pm

I stand corrected Alexander - definitely a Peacock larva! Presumably wandering away to pupate.

Cheers,

- Pete