Whilst out gardening yesterday afternoon I noticed a moth on one of our house walls which I thought odd as it definitely wasn't there earlier in the day. This turned out to be a female Gypsy Moth.
After reading the species entry in WTL, which states that the female doesn't stray far from her old cocoon, I went back to where she was found and sure enough there were the cocoon remnants up under the brick edging.
Also, if slightly disturbed she raises her wings in what is probably some form of defensive posture.
Nigel
Loosley Row, Bucks
Subsequent to the male arriving this afternoon (30th), and another later, mating finally took place.
Hi Nigel,
ReplyDeleteA very good spot - I hadn't realised just how flimsy the cocoon is. I'm sure that'll guarantee you a supply of males to your lights annually for years to come.
Yes, females are rather reluctant fliers, but worth hanging this one out in a netted cage and see if any males are about.
ReplyDeleteHi Peter, the males are around, one came to the house lights a couple of nights ago.
ReplyDeleteJust been watching a male homing in on where I left the female yesterday, he found her after about 5 minutes.
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