Lately, I've noticed that I'm not the only one who loves it. It's the plant of choice for one specific caterpillar who seems to have an appetite only for my vine. At first, I carefully picked them off and relocated them to an wild area next to my property. I don't know if they found their way back overnight or if 100 eggs hatched at once, but there's an endless supply of caterpillars nibbling away on my vine every day. As my frustration mounted, I must admit that I wasn't as careful with a few of the caterpillars as I rid my precious vine of their presence. My vine has seen better days.
Here's a culprit caught in the act!
So, not knowing anything about this hungry bug, I did a little research. Oh dear! The culprit is actually a young Gulf Fritillary, or the Passion Butterfly.
Hmmmm! I've been trying to attract more butterflies, and a greater variety. Unknowingly, I've been successful...until I began ridding my garden of the very critter I'd hoped for!! I'm not feeling very smart.
So, tonight when I checked my vine and spotted two young cats, I decided to leave them where they sat.
You can find out more about the Gulf Fritillary butterfly here.
Hopefully they'll turn into butterflies sooner than later!
