Colouring Up!

Purple Emperor larvae are now beginning to colour up prior to hibernation.  The process usually takes 2-3 weeks, depending on the weather. Most are only just starting, and are 10-15% coloured, like this one (Savernake, Oct 18th):- 

This one, also on Oct 18th, was way ahead of the others, at about 50% coloured-up, though on a sallow which was still fully green:-

Some larvae, though, have only recently changed to the 3rd instar (L3 stage). This one changed on Oct 11th - surprisingly late for such an 'early' year. The cast skin and head are clearly visible:- 

There's a lot of Sallow Leaf Mildew around this autumn, following the wet September. Emperor larvae seem to be able to cope with it:-