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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.

here is a picture of L quercus from Yorkshire:

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

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

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

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

Thanks Downland Boy.
Chris

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!

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

David M wrote: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 )

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:

Charles Nicol wrote:...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.