Caterpillar behaviour

[Chris Jackson]

Hi all,
Today I found a number of these caterpillars on fennel in the South of France. The majority seemed to be "nurturing" a cluster of eggs or mini cocoons. Does anyone know what they are and what they are doing ?
Thanks, Chris.

[Padfield]

I'm afraid this is Invasion of the Body Snatchers.

Watch:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8qalkiuXueg

Guy

EDIT - I forgot to say, they're large whites.

[Chris Jackson]

Thanks for your reply Guy. I've seen the video and I think I will have nightmares tonight. How scarey. Its like something out of Alien !
CJ

[David M]

Perhaps New Zealanders should save themselves millions by introducing a few more of these parasites!

[JKT]

That has been tried in the past ... and I seem to recall that occasionally the newly introduced species may find something they like even better.

[Chris Jackson]

Hello JKT,
Thanks for replying.
Anything flying in Finland at the moment ?
Greetings from Marseilles.
Chris

[JKT]

Mostly Geese trying to get out while they can.

If the temperature picks up again from the current +5 C, some of the autumn moths could be seen. Epirrita, Operophtera, Erannis, Conistra etc. The butterflies are gone.