Observation date: September 28, 2011
Date notes: September 2011
Submitted by: Ansel Oommen
Specimen type: Photograph
Observation notes: I found this cabbage looper in its second or third instar on the food plant Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis). I have had previous encounters with this species on both basil and thyme plants. I brought it inside to rear it in an old fish tank. On the particular day this photo was taken, I had not stocked enough fresh lemon balm and so I found the larvae eating dried lemon balm that was lying on the floor. I found that behavior particular interesting because I have not heard of caterpillars eating dried leaves.
Status: Resident
Verified by: Ken Childs
Verified date: February 24, 2014
Coordinator notes: None.
