Yet another caterpillar id wanted!

drhnotts · #1 (**permalink**) 08-06-2011, 01:04 PM

Id would be much appreciated, as would any recommendations for a good Caterpillar book - this is not in any of the 6 or so I already own....

poschiavanus · #2 (**permalink**) 08-06-2011, 01:14 PM

Looks like an early instar Puss Moth Cerula vinula. Furcula species also show the 'saddle' and posterior 'tails.

There is a picture on p.300 of Manley's photographic guide which is similar. By far and away the best resource for British and Irish caterpillars is the Eggs, Larvae, Pupae and Adult Butterflies and Moths website. This shows many more images of different stages than the best book could ever manage.

The two useful aids to avoiding a trawl through countless pictures are : a) record the host plant, and b) a key to family or similar. I am not aware of a good key in English, but I've used a German one which has really helped.

drhnotts · #3 (**permalink**) 08-06-2011, 01:22 PM

Many thanks, both for the id and the website. Cerula Vinula was the only one I found with a similar appearance, but I rejected it on the colour difference - doh!!!