Nettle Feeding Caterpillars

by Steve Goddard

We are all aware that cold, wet springs have a serious affect on butterfly numbers primarily due to lack of sunshine (although this statement in itself still leaves a lot to be explained) but what pan does the quality of the foodplants play in such conditions? le has come to my attention recently that wet conditions can have a particularly serious affect on nettle-feeding butterfly larvae due to the foodplant taking up too much fluid which eventually kills the caterpillars. This certainly seems to be the case with captive bred larvae which suffer a viral disease affecting the Peacock in particular. Caterpillars appear to be able to develop beyond the second instar before dying almost simultaneously. I found this account to be most intriguing and would be most interested to hear any fimher or associated views on this phenomenen. In fact, any remarks on weather and butterflies would be most welcome.