I found this Ladybird pupa in our garden today on a wooden post, just above a spider's web. The pupal stage follows the 4-part larval one and is the final stage of metamorphosis before the creature will emerge as a pale-coloured adult in a few day's time. Its pigments will darken with time.
![](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQxGjLafLJlW-_MzoCene1VB5yZdIY4LGMEpSDn7F_tsOHdEG1GjMdWXGRUFMq86edXs-6mBBFtNij0hz6f8IbLmbgNy-rcD3uusO5YpoXJu7_v7INOh4bV5u1rhvdqoQPSt2ywM3Cnkc/s320/bl_958+pupa+ladybird+HD1.jpg) |
I suspect this fringe of black and white bristles indicates a Harlequin. |
As usual, I have sent this record to the
UK Ladybird Survey. My tentative identification has been confirmed. I have yet to find a larva, but you can see my Ladybird egg photos
here (these have already been sent in to the survey).
Caroline,
ReplyDeleteGreat find, one nature subject I know very little about, thanks..
at least the ladybug & hoverfly (post below) aren't swayed by these HOT temps. i went to our local nature preserve and was taken back at how much the pond had receded. these high temperatures have really taken a toll on things. hope you're staying cool. have a great night~
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