An unexpected surprise

Mrs Vapourer laid her huge brood of eggs July 12th and in theory the tiny larvae would be expected next spring. I was astonished yesterday to find almost all the eggs had hatched leaving empty shells behind.
I can only speculate that the recent extreme heat has accelerated development. It will be interesting to see happens to the few I shall keep and raise. Hundreds have been relocated.
This image has been stacked in camera using the 60mm macro lens and 26mm extension tubes.
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[Milanie]

What an amazing story

[Betsey]

So fascinating!

[KoalaGardens🐨]

wow that is interesting, the adaptability of nature is amazing. I hope it is a good adaptation for them

[Linda Godwin]

Great macro work and fasinating !

[Merrelyn]

Fabulous detail.

[Jesika]

@milaniet @berelaxed @koalagardens @rontu @merrelyn many thanks. Just watched another caterpillar emerging. Strangely, Mrs V had also laid eggs on her container after she fell off the cocoon. Those eggs are showing no signs of hatching - but watch this space, who knows what’s happening in this mysterious mystery? (22nd July)