Cocoon in pupa stage?

[Doug99]

I have noticed a cocoon on my garden fence which is 5cm in length and 1cm wide and fawn in colour. It has been there for nearly a month and wondered what species it might be?

Is it too big for a moth? It is still alive and in its pupa stage as it moves when touched.

How long does it normally take to complete metamorphasis as it would be a spectacle for the kids to watch it erupt from its cocoon? Could it be removed from the fence to indoors without causing damage?

 

[Doug99]

The cocoon looks now as if it is ready to produce whatever is inside as the internal body has taken on a distinctive dark form.

I would link a picture but don't know how to![/img]

 

[Rhbeen]

alien!

 

[Doug99]

Anyone recognise this?

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Lynda, moderator

edited. you missed the final ]

 

[Doug99]

Why didn't my link to the picture work? I followed the instructions on the info page!

 

[Softus]

How long does it normally take to complete metamorphasis as it would be a spectacle for the kids to watch it erupt from its cocoon?

Sorry I can't offer any suggestions - pupae aren't my thing. Make sure it's not somefink 'orrible though...

 

[Igorian]

How long does it normally take to complete metamorphasis as it would be a spectacle for the kids to watch it erupt from its cocoon?

Sorry I can't offer any suggestions - pupae aren't my thing. Make sure it's not somefink 'orrible though...

Is that Bob, after he had his teeth fixed?

 

[Softus]

Anyone recognise this?

Unquestionably a wooden fence post.

 

[jezmoz]

it's a chrysallis a buttefly or moth

 

[coldshowerkid]

any news?

 

[JohnD]

I fear it may be a tasty snack for a garden bird.

 

[Doug99]

It is still hanging on and I think things inside are still cooking! There is a pronounced yellow spot forming underneath the silk cover.

Still not any wiser what it is though.

http://s202.photobucket.com/albums/aa6/doug99_photos/?action=view&current=Cocoon24Jul07.jpg]

 

[Doug99]

http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa6/doug99_photos/Cocoon24Jul07.jpg]

 

[JohnD]

I think you mean http://i202.photobucket.com/albums/aa6/doug99_photos/Cocoon24Jul07.jpg

 

[Doug99]

Nothing came of it as the slugs eventually got bored waiting and had it for lunch. I disected what was left of it and it was some form of moth.