unidentified caterpillar

Norwegian_Blue · #1 (**permalink**) 31-05-2010, 11:06 AM

Hi. Can anyone identify this caterpillar please? It was found at RSPB Cliffe marshes weaving a cocoon on Hedge mustard in October 2007. It has sparse hairs, a narrow yellow & white central stripe, wider blue stripes with black spots either side, and a white stripe on the lower body. There are 2 large black spots on the head.
I've no idea if it's a butterfly or moth & have searched for over 2 years for an I.D. with no success.

k4t3 · #2 (**permalink**) 31-05-2010, 03:30 PM

Bath White butterfly, foodplant fits as does the timing. Rare migrant to UK. Very nice pic!

Norwegian_Blue · #3 (**permalink**) 31-05-2010, 04:10 PM

Many thanks for the I.D. I did look at the bath white photos when I first found it, but discounted it as the number of spots and coloured stripes didn't seem quite right. It does seem to fit the food plant and time of year though.