2021 March 11 afternoon

 

   Paige Erickson-McGee writes:  We saw this chrysalis in Metchosin on Eales Road on some Broom we were cutting down next to a nice forest.  Photographed by Sara Lax.   Jeremy Tatum writes:   Papilio rutulus or eurymedon – I can’t tell which.

 

 

Tiger Swallowtail Papilio rutulus/eurymedon (Lep.: Papilionidae)  Sara Lax

 

 

   Ian Cooper writes:  I spotted the burrow entrance of what must be a very large Antrodiaetus pacificus Trapdoor Spider while scanning along the embankment with my bike light. It’s possible the resident spider retreated as I and my annoying light approached the site before I spotted the burrow. I was taken aback at how big the opening was. Although the spider wasn’t at its doorway or visible when I peered into its burrow, it must be relatively huge compared to the other resident trapdoor spiders in the vicinity I’m familiar with. The silk-lined burrow was clearly a well maintained ‘active’ residence which I was able to shine my light into. Very much looking forward to my next visit to the area in hopes of catching sight of this monster!  [So are we! – Jeremy T]

 

   Ian photographed a noctuid caterpillar feeding on grass at night.  It’s not the usual Noctua pronuba.  I wish I knew what it is, writes Jeremy Tatum!

 

Caterpillar (Lep.: Noctuidae)  Ian Cooper