Small tortoiseshell caterpillars (Nymphalidae family) feeding on stinging
nettles (Urtica dioica). These
nettles don’t just have a sting in the tail, they are a gardener’s friend. As
well as being a vital food source for many native British butterflies, they
also indicate a particularly nutrient-rich soil. This would explain why I find
so many nettle patches in the far corner of gardens, where the compost bin used
to be. Whilst I wouldn’t recommend beating yourself with them as the Romans did
to alleviate eczema, you may find yourself pleasantly surprised if you pick a
few tips & wilt them into soup or a stew. Just remember your thickest
gardening gauntlets!
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