We were at Walney yesterday afternoon (the 24th) around 3 o’clock. I was very happy when I saw this beautiful caterpillar on one of the milkweed leaves. I wasn't looking for it in particular, more for the milkweed bugs you can see in the second photo. It was a nice surprise. I positioned my cell phone low and directed it upwards to get this and was delighted but very surprised it turned out reasonably well.
As many of you already know, you don’t ever want to pick one of these up with bare hands. They have a great defense system against predators. That applies to many other caterpillars. And while we are on the subject, as beautiful as nature is, we need a good dose of common sense about it all don’t we, and a bit of knowledge helps? This is something I have learned myself over these many years. I feel like I am still learning every day just by stepping out the front door.
There is a very interesting article to read here.
I will say more in another post. It's late and time to put my laptop away.
*Wow*—that caterpillar looks fascinating; I’ve never seen anything like it. Oh yes, even at our age, you’re always learning something new!
ReplyDeleteHappy day , hugs Elke
Oh my GOSH! I have never seen anything like it!! It is both frightening and beautiful. When I was a child, I used to grab all the caterpillars I could find and put them in a jar. Of course then I let them go. I guess I barely escaped being injured! Don't forget the Mary Oliver doc!
ReplyDeletethat is the most glorious caterpillar! we have some here in australia that can make you itch badly so you have to be careful under trees :)
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