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Peacock Larvae

Posted: Mon Aug 27, 2007 8:37 pm
by m_galathea
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

Posted: Mon Aug 27, 2007 8:56 pm
by Pete Eeles
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

Posted: Tue Aug 28, 2007 11:10 am
by m_galathea
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.
Image

Cheers
Alexander

Posted: Tue Aug 28, 2007 7:37 pm
by Pete Eeles
I stand corrected Alexander - definitely a Peacock larva! Presumably wandering away to pupate.

Cheers,

- Pete