|
|
never seen so many of these butterflys in past years any know if they are a threat to the apples like OFM ?
md http://animal.discovery.com/guides/butterflies/angelwings-tortoiseshel ls/red-admiral.html |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| I don't think Red Admirals are a threat to fruit trees of any kind, unless they partake of any ripe fruit that falls from the tree and begins to ferment on the ground. Red Admirals lay their eggs on nettles and the resulting caterpillars use the nettles as their main (possibly exclusive?) food source. The adult butterflies are principally nectar sippers. I have quite a few who are enjoying my blooming globe alliums right now. I am not sure why there are so many Red Admirals this year, but hopefully it is good news. Just enjoy the pretty butterflies! :-) |
|
- Posted by larry_gene USDA8b-OregonPDX (My Page) on Thu, May 3, 12 at 23:48
| The red admiral caterpillars are partial to nettles and hops. Any sap coming out of pruning or other tree wounds will attract the butterfly. The sudden increase in a population of butterflies is called an "irruption" and occurs every few years to decades (unlike the Monarch butterfly annual migration). Southern Ontario, next to you, is enjoying the same outbreak. It is typical for genus Vanessa butterflies to go through these cycles (certain admirals, painted lady, etc.). |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Fruit & Orchards Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.