Emperor moth releases??

[CloudedYellow]

Last week I found these - the larvae of the Emperor moth Saturnia pavonia - at Attenborough Nature Reserve near Nottingham. This is probably a third instar.



Last year a 5th instar larva was photographed nearby. Reading up I understand that the habitat is wrong so I wonder if these are releases?? Being interested in butterflies I am aware that rearing and indiscriminate releasing of butterflies is, at the very least, frowned upon. Does the same happen in mothing circles?

Richard

[wildlifesnapper]

Hi

it could well be natural. They are found in woodland edges and other waste ground and scrubby habitats , not just moorland. They will eat bramble which as you know is everywhere. So it wouldn't supprise me to find a colony at Attenborough.

neil

[Lance Morgan]

Yes could be natural colonisation as Neil says. I have found them in the most unlikely places - gravel pit etc

[CloudedYellow]

Thank you both, that is good news.

And I now feel happier submitting the record without wondering if I am being a wally!

Richard