Monday 30 May 2016

Spindle Ermine Moth caterpillars

Whilst walking along the Roman Road to the north of Abington, Andy M spotted a number of bushes which were almost completely covered in what looked like cobwebs. Closer inspection revealed that the webs contained thousands of tiny spotted caterpillars. Jennifer later confirmed these to be Spindle Ermine Moth caterpillars, which spin the web as protection from the birds.



1 comment:

Unknown said...

I live at the top of the High St & they have an occupied bush in my garden. This evening the caterpillars have made many single strands down to the ground and appear to be abseiling down to the ground...no doubt to turn into pupa underground?

The Aims of Abington Naturewatch

At their meeting on 9 April 2005 the members approved this revised version of the aims of Abington Naturewatch:

  • To monitor and record the wildlife (fauna & flora) within the borders of the Abingtons;
  • To encourage protection of our wildlife, maintain its quality and foster its diversity;
  • To promote awareness of the richness, potential and problems of the natural environment of the Abingtons;
  • To cooperate in improving access to the local natural environment for the benefit of all Abington villagers.

Pat Daunt, Founder

The organisation is informal and communication is by email if possible; members are notified of events from time to time. Contact details are maintained by a small "project team". There is currently no membership fee as costs are covered by voluntary contributions at events.

Members are encouraged to report notable sightings of flora and fauna within the Abingtons to the appropriate sector coordinator and an illustrated record is published annually.

A map of the area covered, with some features noted, is available here: http://maps.google.co.uk/maps/ms?ie=UTF8&hl=en&msa=0&msid=213774935674882866424.00000111dca2be9f06ab8&z=13>

For more information or to join, please contact David Farrant on (01223) 892871.

Contributions to our records should be sent to sector contacts or either of the above. Photographs may also be submitted to Andy Merryweather (amerryweather61@gmail.com)