Out with the UV torch last night looking for fluorescing caterpillars, and found this Eyed Hawk-moth caterpillar, covered in cocoons of a parasitic wasp, whose larvae will already have done for the caterpillar by feeding on its organs, before emerging to pupate. Fascinating, but poor caterpillar!

I'm still reeling a bit from this, Brigit! What an extraordinary thing to find, and thanks for sharing. This sort of parasite is my living definition of 'horrified fascination'. Fair play to the wasps, but poor old caterpillar... 🐛

Thanks Brigit. Enjoy your breakfast!! 😄

Are all caterpillars fluorescent under uv? I wouldn't mind trying this in our garden. Have you a recommendation for uv torch?