We have lots of nettles at Saltholme and this is what we found on them today.
The caterpillars of the Peacock Butterfly.
There were lots in a small area, unfortunately not near a path, but there are certain to be more in other sites, which is heartening after such bad weather last year. It is not practical to provide a home for the caterpillars in a small garden as they need a large nettle patch, but how about a nectar plant for the butterflies? The classic is the Buddleja bush but Hemp Agrimony is just as good, or be brave and plant its American cousin Purple Joe Pye Weed? This will really give nature a home!
Peter