Unidentified chrysalis

[Phillthy]

Hi, found a caterpillar in the back yard about 3 weeks ago now, it quickly became a chrysalis and has done little else since, its definitely still alive though. I don't have any pictures of the actual caterpillar (very dark green, almost resembling a slug at first glance) but do have some of the chrysalis, any idea?

[Naturenutz]

Ive seen these before but cant remember what they were .It maybe worth asking how best to keep it.ive heard of butterflies/moths not hatching healthy after being kept in to hot or to damp conditions.Someone may advise.

[Jason Green]

Afternoon Phil, and welcome to WAB

I can't identify the caterpillar/chrysallis, though would suggest it is kept outside as opposed to anywhere warm. If not, the developmental speed is increased and it will hatch too early in the year. There won't be enough of the foodplant available to sustain it and there will be no moth of the opposing sex for it to mate with.

It could be an Angle Shades caterpillar - see Angle Shades Phlogophora meticulosa - UKMoths baed on colour and number of active caterpillars at this time of year - but it could be another.

Take care,

Jason

[Phillthy]

Thanks for the replies! It's being kept in a conservatory where the temperature is practically the same as outside (students can't afford central heating! ) I actually forgot to mention as well that it was found in Bangor, North wales. I did have a look at the angle shades before posting the pics but thought it might not be it as the caterpillar images I've seen of them are very light green compared to what this was, could still be though!

Thanks again, Phill.

[Dogghound]

Its a noctuid but not Angle shades. The processes on the back of the abdomen are a Key to its ID (pointed end). Angle shades has 4 small spikes here, this one looks to have two reduced spikes.

[Naturenutz]

Maybe large yellow underwing ?